Pioneer Insights
Trump Accounts” (IRC 530A): what families should know before you open one
For folks with young children, there’s recent buzz about the new Trump Account—officially a…
Cost Increases at Private Colleges Outpaced Public Colleges in 2025-2026
Over the past 20 years, average costs for tuition, fees, housing, and food have…
FAFSA Opens October 1, 2025: What You Need to Know
If you or your loved one plans to attend college in the 2026–2027 academic year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) opens October 1, 2025. Completing the FAFSA is the key to receiving federal grants, work-study, and loans, as well as many state and institutional aid programs.
The Fall Checklist: Balancing College Applications and Financial Planning
For families with high school seniors, fall is crunch time. Between campus visits, final SAT/ACT attempts, and essay writing, there’s also a parallel track that’s just as important: preparing the financial side of the college journey. Getting ahead now can reduce stress and improve the chances of securing the best possible financial aid package.
What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Means for Student Loan Borrowers
On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—a sweeping legislative package—was signed into law, bringing with it some of the most significant changes to federal student loans in over a decade.
From College Counselor to Certified College Financial Consultant: A Full-Circle Moment
Continuing education has always been important to me. As a career changer with a Master’s degree in Counseling, I’ve always enjoyed learning and strengthening my knowledge—whether that’s exploring different counseling theories or diving into the intricacies of new tax laws. That mindset is what led me to pursue the Certified College Financial Consultant (CCFC) designation.
🎓 The Education Components Inside the “One Big Beautiful Bill”
July 2025 marked the passage of one of the most sweeping federal reforms in recent history—the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB). While the headlines have focused on tax cuts and student loans, hidden within its 1,200+ pages are transformative changes to the U.S. education system.
Tips for Women Who Are Living in the Sandwich Generation
At a time when your career is reaching a peak and you are looking ahead to your own retirement, you may find yourself in the position of having to help your children with college expenses or the financial challenges of young adulthood while at the same time looking after the needs of your aging parents. Squeezed in the middle, you’re in the “sandwich generation” — a group loosely defined as people in their 40s to 60s who are “sandwiched” between caring for children and aging parents.
Tips for Ensuring Great Financial Chemistry in Your Relationship
Financial compatibility is a cornerstone of a healthy relationship. Money, often cited as one of the leading causes of stress and disagreements, can be a tricky subject to navigate. However, with open communication, mutual understanding, and strategic planning, couples can achieve financial harmony.
Interest Rates on Federal Student Loans Jump to Decade Highs for 2024-2025 Year
Every May, interest rates on federal student loans are reset for the upcoming school year. The rates are calculated by combining the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury note with an extra fixed amount set by Congress.

