If it's a ton, it's better to work a day job while developing your side business and not telling your employer (because they will try to sue you sometimes).<p>It's never too late to start a side project! Just find a way to pay bills first :)
It isn’t a hard block, but it puts you in a very bad position. You will likely make business decisions that result in quick money rather than long term success (we’re already tempted with that but debt makes it worse). It also may be a red flag to potential investors if they find out, but not sure.