2009 brought not only steeper tuition for colleges, but also tough new rules.

Dennis Stewart, president of Educational Funding Solutions, knows it is imperative to start planning for college finances early.

EFS works with the student individually to determine which schools are the best fit financially and scholastically. Stewart then works with the parents to develop strategies on how to comfortably pay for college on a tax-favored basis, without spending down assets, tapping into retirement or relying on need-based financial aid.

Stewart deals with many myths of college planning and shows parents how it might cost less to enroll in a private school versus a state school.

Stewart will show parents the four areas where they can find the money for college: taxes, mortgage, retirement and college, ironically also the biggest expenses. He also knows how to develop an "IRS Tax Scholarship."

Call for help navigating the maze of college funding at (818) 597-1532.

Free workshop schedules can be found at the website www.educationalfunding solutions.com. Educational Funding Solutions is at 31348 Via Colinas, Ste. 106, Westlake Village.