They Thought They Were Out of Time — But It’s Not Too Late to Fund College

They thought time had slipped through their fingers. Their oldest was stepping into senior year—college applications looming, deadlines creeping closer. Panic set in.

They’d worked hard. Two steady jobs, bills paid on time, dreams for the future. But the college fund? Barely started.

Guilt whispered: “Did we mess this up? Are we already behind?”

When they came to me, shame wasn’t the first thing I saw. I saw parents who cared deeply—just stuck in a tough spot.

Here’s the truth: It’s never too late.

We took a deep breath and looked at what they had. Two 401(k) plans. That wasn’t just retirement money—it was a safety net, a resource they could tap into if college bills needed help.

Yes, it means taking a loan from themselves. But isn’t it better to owe yourself than a bank? Paying interest back to your own future instead of someone else’s?

Sure, there are risks. Job changes, repayment schedules. But with eyes wide open, those risks became manageable.

More importantly, they felt hope again.

This wasn’t about “fixing a failure.” It was about making a new plan—a strategy that worked for them, their family, and their child’s dreams.

Because sometimes, hope and a good plan are the most powerful things we can give our kids.

If you’re feeling the squeeze, thinking the college savings train has left the station—stop. Reach out. Let’s figure this out together. There’s still time, and you’re not alone.