College Debt: Should Kids Repay Their Parents? Episode 417

In this episode, Niall asks: Should children repay their parents for college fees? A mother wrote to the show after a heated disagreement with her husband. Their 26-year-old daughter, now working in a well-paid legal job, had her college fees fully covered by her parents. The mother believes it’s only fair that she repays them now, but the father insists that supporting your child through education is part of parenting — not a loan with strings attached.

The conversation opened the lines to passionate callers. Some argued that repayment shows respect and gratitude, especially if parents made financial sacrifices. Others said it’s wrong to treat family support like a business transaction, and that the cost of education is something parents take on willingly.

Some took a middle-ground view — suggesting repayment depends on family circumstances. If the parents are struggling, a payback plan might be reasonable. But if the family is financially stable, perhaps the support should be seen as a gift.

As Niall points out, this debate isn’t just about money — it touches on values, responsibility, and the evolving expectations between parents and adult children.