Education planning and the financial responsibilities around it can seem overwhelming. What can we afford, what help is out there in financial aid, and how could any of that work in conjunction with scholarships? The I & E planning system helps families make the right decisions while leveraging multiple sources to aid in making education affordable and minimize stress. Parents and grandparents, recognize the role that education plays in the continued growth and prosperity for their children or grandchildren. Our firm will help you achieve peace of mind while establishing a game plan for your future.

There are a few main funding sources families draw on to cover the cost: scholarships, income, savings, and loans. Depending on each family one source or all may be leveraged for tuition, fees, and room and board. Understanding how to plan, proactively, to get the most out of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) will help families with multiple financial goals. The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is an estimate of a student, a dependent student, or their parent or guardian’s ability to pay the cost of a year of post-secondary education. Let us help you navigate through this process as we walk beside you, listen to you, and understand the multiple layers of challenges that may arise in planning for the education expenses.

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Benjamin Franklin

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You can find scholarships by researching the financial aid office, school counselors, U.S. Dept of Labor, state grant agency, and library reference section. In order to find which are available to you go to ED.gov. Your scholarship may or may not be taxable. You can also find more information at FINaid.org

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a form completed by current and prospective college students in the United States to determine their eligibility for student financial aid.  Learn more at Studentaid.gov

In the education system of the United States, an expected family contribution is an estimate of a student’s, and for a dependent student, their parent’ or guardian’s ability to pay the cost of a year of post-secondary education. It is not just the amount of money you have, but also the way it is registered and where the funds are held that influences the EFC.  By thinking ahead, I&E Planning will help you get the most value for your dollars spent on education.  The more efficient your planning, the better off you’ll be in other areas of your financial life.

Did you know you can utilize ROTH IRAs, brokerage accounts, Uniform Gift to Minor Accounts, Cash value of life insurance and Coverdell ESAs as alternatives to a 529 plan? 529 Plans require that money is used for “qualified expenses” in order to be tax-free.  You’ll want to become aware of the advantages of each alternative so that you maintain control and have flexibility for future decision-making. You will benefit from the decades of experience our advisors have in helping families, like yours.