The College Process is So Confusing...

Without proper guidance and education, most parents of college bound students will follow this path when paying for college. First, they will spend what they’ve saved specifically for college. Next, they will begin seeking borrowing opportunities and often discover home equity or retirement funds to be the most obvious and available sources. Third, a family considers adding part time work, starting a side business or other forms of added income. FINALLY, when all hope is lost, a family may consider applying for financial aid to determine what financial aid opportunities are available.
 While this approach may result in a fully funded college expense, it may also put into jeopardy a successful retirement, house ownership, financial stability and other financial goals a family may have.
 As a financial professional, I believe the proper approach is nearly the opposite of the typical approach. And it’s as simple as A B C.
First, apply for financial aid. Don’t make assumptions of qualification. Instead, KNOW what you will qualify for and if it makes sense, pursue it sooner rather than later.
Second, this is arguably one of the most expensive periods of your life. It is critical to become as cash flow efficient as possible. Almost every family I meet with has what we refer to as wealth leakage in their financial habits. These are areas where you are transferring wealth unknowingly and unnecessarily.
 Third, there is no doubt that college may be more expensive than you had anticipated and because of that, we may have to borrow in order to cover some of the costs for college. But in order to borrow smart, it’s crucial to understand the borrowing opportunities and their individual risks and rewards.
 Finally, we deplete assets, and only as a last resort. Maintaining control of your assets is your key to financial success. Spending your assets as a last resort instead of a first course of action, will keep you in control of your finances longer.
 If in working together, we were able to help you develop a plan that would follow this sequence, is that something that makes sense to you and that you would want to pursue with us?DEVELOPING A WORKABLE PLAN IS THE ONLY SOLUTION!Our goal is to show you how to increase your student’s eligibility to receive financial aid and reduce the “net cost of college” and to be in the best situation possible!

We will show you how to obtain college aid and get the maximum allowable under law.

What we do for you

• Help you understand the financial aid system
• Analyze your family's ability to receive financial assistance even before filing the FAFSA
• Develop methods and strategies to increase the amount of financial assistance you can receive
• Complete and electronically file the FAFSA every year your student is in college

We also help:

• Guide you in the best selection of colleges that offer the best college education, utilizing financial assistance.
• Assist in the preparation of all applications for financial assistance.
• Review all documents to ensure accuracy and your entitlements for financially assisted programs.
• Assist in negotiating the best financial aid packages for your family.

Call today to set your appointment for your free, no-obligation consultation.

Ron Palmer

Live Your Cash

925-331-0824