Income-driven repayment plans are federal student loan repayment options designed to make monthly payments more manageable based on a borrower's income and family size. These plans typically cap payments at a percentage of discretionary income, ensuring that borrowers do not pay more than they can afford. Under these plans, borrowers may also qualify for loan forgiveness after a certain number of years of consistent payments, usually 20 to 25 years. This can provide significant relief for those with lower incomes or high debt levels, helping them to avoid default and maintain financial stability.