So, grandma and grandpa want to help pay for college? Congratulations!

First, we need some clarity on what exactly they mean. Are they going to start funding a 529 early, are they planning on writing a fat check to cover tuition each semester, or are they planning on covering the student loan payments?

Each option comes with its own student aid eligibility impact, tax repercussions, and, perhaps, familial obligations.

In today’s episode, I break down the real impact of grandparent gifts on college affordability, from 529 accounts to direct tuition payments—even post-graduation support. It’s not as simple as just writing a check, and the way you approach it can make a huge difference. The smartest families plan ahead, understand gift taxes, financial aid formulas, and keep the family peace.

Making Grandparent Contributions Most Effective for College Planning

(00:06:16) Grandparents' College Funding Impact

(00:08:49) Family Dynamics and Grandkids' Gifts

(00:12:22) Estate Planning for College Costs

(00:16:28) Complexities of Funding College

(00:17:44) Grandparent Contributions Impact College Choices

Financial Aid and Taxes: What Grandparent College Support Really Means

While it’s generous and amazing when grandparents want to chip in for college, the mechanics of when and how they help—before, during, or after college—can impact your family’s financial aid, tax situation, and even family harmony.

Key Considerations:

• Financial Aid Formulas: Depending on whether your student’s colleges use FAFSA or the CSS Profile, gifts from grandparents could affect financial aid eligibility differently. FAFSA-only schools no longer treat these gifts as student income, but CSS Profile schools may still count the gift as untaxed income.

• Asset Ownership: If grandparents own a 529 college savings account, it’s generally not reported as an asset by the student’s family on aid forms, but withdrawals might still affect aid depending on the formula.

• Gift Tax Limits & Strategies: There are annual limits (currently $19,000 per giver, per recipient) for gifts, but special rules let grandparents “superfund” a 529 account with up to five years’ worth at once. Direct payment of college tuition to the school is also unlimited and gift-tax exempt.

• Family Dynamics: It’s worth thinking about fairness and expectations among all the grandkids—sometimes a blessing leads to tricky family conversations.

Creative Ways Grandparents Can Pitch In:

1. Before College: Open and fund a 529 account, possibly utilizing the superfunding rule for estate planning.
2. During College: Pay the college directly to take advantage of gift tax exclusions.
3. After College: Help pay back student loans, cosign loans, or adjust estate plans to benefit grandkids in the future.

Being strategic pays off! The simple act of gifting funds for education can carry complex and far-reaching consequences. Always consider your family's full financial and emotional landscape—and dive deeper before making decisions.

Connect with host, Jack Wang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/

*be sure to send a connection request with a message saying Hello!

Navigate college funding with me at www.smartcollegebuyer.com

The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Nothing in this podcast is a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any financial product or service. Every family’s financial situation is unique, so always consult with your own financial or tax professional before making any decisions. While we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we can’t guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Your mileage may vary. No warranties, express or implied. Batteries still not included.

What if your teen could confidently KNOW the right career path before they ever enroll in their first college class?

What if your teen could focus and do well in class because they actually enjoy and are “wired for” those particular subjects?

Well, they can! Today you get to meet my friend and special guest, Jay Dusold, the creator of the Life After 12th Program, who’s dedicated his career to guiding young people toward meaningful, fulfilling work—rather than just following the crowd or guessing their way through college.

Ending the Guesswork: How Career Guidance Saves Time, Money, and Stress

If you’re like me, you might have struggled with career direction yourself, or watched your own child navigate the overwhelming maze of majors and college choices. In this conversation, Jay Dusold and I discuss why so many students end up switching majors, spending extra years in college, or landing in jobs they don’t actually enjoy. We break down how understanding a student’s unique “career DNA” can make all the difference—helping families redirect their time and money toward options that truly fit.

We’ll also tackle some common misconceptions parents have about college, share stories from Jay Dusold’s coaching practice, and offer practical ways to help your student gain clarity—and confidence—before making these big decisions.

Navigating College Majors: A Smarter Approach to Career Planning for Students

College is one of the biggest investments your family will make, but too often, teens enter school without a clear career direction—leaving a trail of wasted time, money, and stress.

“57% of college students take six years to complete a traditional four-year degree and 72% graduate and get a job unrelated to their earned major.” - Jay Dusold

Luckily, you have the power to ensure your teen doesn’t become one of those statistics by identifying a “verifiable career fit.” Here’s what else you’ll learn:

(00:04:51) Finding Purpose After Uncertainty

(00:08:54) Navigating College Majors

(00:12:37) Rethinking College and Career Paths

(00:19:21) Verifiable Fit Drives Success

(00:24:19) Job Insights: 4 Key Lenses

(00:29:44) College Value & Success Stories

(00:32:28) Michael's Inspiring Career Pivot

(00:34:29) Time, Passion, and Purpose

Whether your child’s dream career requires a degree or not, clear planning and purpose can transform the college journey. Don’t spend six figures hoping things work out—get intentional, and let’s help the next generation thrive!

Follow Jay Dusold:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaydusold/

Website: https://lifeafter12th.com/

Life After 12th Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/lifeafter12th/

Connect with host, Jack Wang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/

*be sure to send a connection request with a message saying Hello!

Navigate college funding with me at www.smartcollegebuyer.com

The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Nothing in this podcast is a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any financial product or service. Every family’s financial situation is unique, so always consult with your own financial or tax professional before making any decisions. While we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we can’t guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Your mileage may vary. No warranties, express or implied. Batteries still not included.

Think covering college costs with scholarships is impossible?

Regret waiting until senior year to think about paying for college?

Nia Grant is here to help you stop panicking about how to cover college costs, and, instead, start helping your teen find and apply for scholarships like it’s their full-time job. Nia was a senior in high school when she realized college tuition was her responsibility, so she buckled down, made mind maps, found local, regional, corporate, and private scholarship opportunities, spent all her spare time applying for them, and was awarded one million dollars in scholarship money.

Creating College Opportunities: How to Find and Win Scholarships

(00:07:52) "Look in your own closet. Look in your own house. Like, who are the brands that you support? Like a Coca Cola or Chick Fil A. Like, look them up. Because a lot of the ones that you patronize offer scholarships to help you out as well." - Nia Grant

Nia’s scholarship awards covered her college costs, living expenses, books, and much more, ensuring she graduated debt-free and well on her feet with a $100,000 net worth at age 21. During college, Nia launched her own small business, Nia Knows Finance, where she began helping other students (Gen Z) to make, manage, and multiply their money.

From Chemistry Major to College Cash Coach: Nia Grant’s Million Dollar Scholarship Story

(00:06:09) Generational College Expectations

(00:07:36) Exploring Scholarship Opportunities

(00:11:14) Finding Scholarships via social media

(00:14:27) Scholarship Criteria Beyond Grades

(00:16:59) Strategic Scholarship Application Tips

(00:21:01) Maximizing College: Beyond Classes

(00:24:41) Scholarship Application Motivational Strategies

Mastering the Scholarship Numbers Game for College Affordability

• It’s a Numbers Game: Nia applied for between 80–100 scholarships her senior year of high school—and won about 20. Persistence pays off: the more you apply, the better your odds, and sometimes that very next application could be the one.

• Think Beyond Grades: Not all scholarships are about perfect GPAs. Many awards focus on character, background, community involvement, or even creative prompts—so don’t count yourself out if your grades aren’t flawless.

• Leverage Your Network: Start your search with brands you already know and support, local organizations, your school’s financial aid office, and even your parents’ employers. And—pro tip—start EARLY and stay organized to avoid missing deadlines (like the $20k Nia missed for not submitting a headshot in time!).

Follow Nia Grant:

Website: https://niaknowsfinance.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niaknowsfinance/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@niaknowsfinance

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@niaknowsfinance

Connect with host, Jack Wang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/

*be sure to send a connection request with a message saying Hello!

Navigate college funding with me at www.smartcollegebuyer.com

The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Nothing in this podcast is a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any financial product or service. Every family’s financial situation is unique, so always consult with your own financial or tax professional before making any decisions. While we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we can’t guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Your mileage may vary. No warranties, express or implied. Batteries still not included.

Choosing where your kid will attend to college and deciding how to pay for it are two HUGE, potentially life-changing decisions, both for the child and the parents - particularly those from lower-income or first-generation backgrounds, making admissions and financial guidance in this area essential. You shouldn’t have to choose between funding college and having a secure retirement.

Don’t DIY the process simply because you don’t know where to turn for help or are afraid of how much that help may cost! This episode highlights several associations and resources to help ensure you find the right professional for your situation.

Just as not all school counselors or administrators are created equal, neither are financial planners or advisors. When facing cookie-cutter advice about affording college, that should be a red flag for you to pursue guidance from someone closer to your particular issue, situation, school of choice, or financial options.

Navigating College Admissions and Funding: Why Expert Guidance Matters

(00:01:41) Free FAFSA Filing Support Requirements

(00:06:30) Independent Educational Consultants’ Role

(00:11:13) The Limitations of Financial Aid Administrators at Colleges

(00:15:43) Certified College Funding Specialists in Finance

(00:22:20) Strategic College List Building by Financial Experts

(00:24:58) Navigating Student Loan Repayment and Forgiveness

Saving Your Future: Expert Strategies for College Funding and Selection

• Financial aid administrators can explain financial aid rules but cannot provide advice on admissions or other areas beyond their scope.

• Your typical financial advisor may not fully understand financial aid and college planning, providing generic advice like saving in 529 plans.

• Someone helping you with this process should understand student loan repayment options and the intersection of admissions and aid.

• Specialized designations like Certified College Funding Specialist (CCFS) are recommended for in-depth knowledge in college planning.

A great episode of the New Money New Problems podcast by fellow Financial Advisor, Brenton Harrison, that explains the value (savings) in paying for guidance with your money: When Paying a Financial Advisor $6,000 is a Bargain

Resources to Help Families with the College Admissions Process:

IECA - Independent Educational Consultants Association - https://www.iecaonline.com/

HECA - Higher Education Consultants Association - https://www.hecalive.org/

NACAC - National Association for College Admission Counseling - https://www.nacacnet.org/student/

ACCFS - Accredited Certified College Funding Specialists™ - https://www.hireaccfs.com/

NICCP – National Institute of Certified College Planners - https://account.niccp.com/find-a-ccps/

Connect with host, Jack Wang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/

*be sure to send a connection request with a message saying Hello!

Navigate college funding with me at www.smartcollegebuyer.com

The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Nothing in this podcast is a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any financial product or service. Every family’s financial situation is unique, so always consult with your own financial or tax professional before making any decisions. While we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we can’t guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Your mileage may vary. No warranties, express or implied. Batteries still not included.

When you’re facing any large purchase, there are two major questions you must answer:

1. How do I lower the cost?

1. What’s the best way to pay for it?

While you’ve heard about student loans, 529 plans, and, potentially, other options to help you finance college costs, the best way for YOU to pay for college for your student is likely a unique combination of tools & tax strategies based on your personal situation. **This is why it’s so important to work 1:1 with a financial planner and tax advisor.

College Financing, Debt Freedom, and Wealth Building

529 plans offer flexibility but require consideration of tax implications. While these plans can be a great way to save for college expenses, it's important to understand how they can impact your taxes and overall financial situation. Making informed decisions now can lead to significant savings down the road.

Gifting and income shifting can save on taxes and shift income to family members. By strategically gifting assets or shifting income to family members in lower tax brackets, you can reduce your tax liability and potentially save a significant amount of money. It's all about understanding the rules and making the most of the opportunities available to you.

College Payment Hacks: Smart Ways to Pay for College

(00:03:13) College Tuition Payment Plans Overview

(00:05:58) Tax Benefits and Flexibility of 529 Plans

(00:09:16) Strategies for College Tuition Financing

(00:18:16) Income Shifting and Tax-Saving Strategies

(00:21:47) Funding College While Building Long-Term Wealth

Paying For College Without Taking on a Truckload of Debt

Jack Wang highlights the importance of exploring various financial strategies to fund college education, including payment plans, savings, 529 plans, and loans, to safeguard a family's financial well-being. He highlights colleges offering diverse payment plans and emphasizes advanced financial techniques, such as leveraging tax savings and allowing investments to grow, to minimize the long-term financial burden of college expenses.

This episode answers these questions:

• What are some advanced strategies for college financing?

• What are the various ways families can pay for college?

• How can gifting and income shifting strategies help save on taxes?

• What are the tax implications of 529 plans?

• How can college financing be turned into an opportunity for building long-term wealth?

Connect with host, Jack Wang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/

*be sure to send a connection request with a message saying Hello!

Navigate college funding with me at www.smartcollegebuyer.com

The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Nothing in this podcast is a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any financial product or service. Every family’s financial situation is unique, so always consult with your own financial or tax professional before making any decisions. While we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we can’t guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Your mileage may vary. No warranties, express or implied. Batteries still not included.

Understanding how your credit score works and actively working to improve it can open up doors to better financial opportunities. One of the biggest mistakes college students make when it comes to credit is overspending and not keeping track of their expenses.

My guest today, Brittany Greene, focuses on providing financial education and resources to college students. Through her company, Crown Financial, she offers workshops, online courses, and personalized coaching to help students navigate the complexities of personal finance. From budgeting and credit score management to investing, Crown Financial equips students with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions both during college and beyond.

Empowering College Students through Financial Education and Credit Score Building Techniques

(00:05:26) Empowering College Students through Credit Education

(00:05:26) Developing Growth Mindset for Financial Success

(00:06:12) Mindset Shift for Financial Success in Credit

(00:08:00) Credit Empowerment for College Students

(00:15:43) Financial Empowerment through Strategic Money Management

(00:18:33) Credit Score Fluctuations with Velocity Banking

The Impact of a Growth Mindset on Finances

Building a growth mindset is crucial in financial progress. It's all about having the belief that you can learn, grow, and improve your financial situation over time. By adopting a growth mindset, you are more likely to take risks, learn from failures, and persist in the face of challenges - all of which are essential for financial success.

(00:21:56) "The best investment that you can make is in yourself personally. Develop yourself so that you can recognize opportunities, so that you can take advantage and you don't fumble the bag on the opportunities that you have coming up." - Brittany Greene

Tips for Families Preparing to Send a Student to College:

• Develop a growth mindset to believe in your ability to progress financially.

• Start with building your mindset every day by listening to podcasts, using affirmations, and staying resilient.

• Utilize resources like StellarFi and Self to build credit by paying bills on time.

• Learn about your credit report using tools like Credit Karma and Experian.com.

• Recognize that the best investment you can make is in yourself personally, to recognize and seize opportunities.

• Encourage students to transition (and model the transition yourself!) from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset to pave the way for financial success.

Connect with host, Jack Wang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/

*be sure to send a connection request with a message saying Hello!

Navigate college funding with me at www.smartcollegebuyer.com

The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Nothing in this podcast is a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any financial product or service. Every family’s financial situation is unique, so always consult with your own financial or tax professional before making any decisions. While we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we can’t guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Your mileage may vary. No warranties, express or implied. Batteries still not included.

Follow Brittany Greene:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanygreenecf/

Website: https://www.crownedfinancials.com/

Resources:

https://stellarfi.com/

https://www.self.inc/