Parents of college students are feeling the pinch. The gap—between the ever-increasing costs of higher education and the steadily declining amount of financial aid and loans available—keeps getting wider.

As you piece together the aid you’ll need, start with your financial aid office; there are several options to help you foot the bill. Financial aid officers can put together a package of federal, state, and college aid, including loans and work-study options. And the application for financial aid from the federal government is the same for most student loan programs, state aid, and private non-needs-based scholarships.

But that still may not be enough. For example, the aid package may not take into account the cost of lab fees or books. If only tuition costs are considered in the calculations, the total cost of college still may leave you short of your goal.

e can help fill the gap. A representative at GNO FCU can offer a variety of loan options. Or, if college expenses are several years away, we can help you figure out the best savings strategy to avoid negative tax consequences.

Make sure your college-age son or daughter gets the education he or she needs to build a brighter future. Call us today at 504.454.8224.