It's never too late.
I came from a really poor family, had to start working at 14, left my parents house at 16 due to over abuse. Had to study and work untill i finished highschool.
Now, with 28, i am starting to build a career (not just working around any job you get), starting a college, relationships, friends (which i had none until now due to no time). Everything, it totally pays off quickly, since you already have a lot of "life" experience.