When should I use the phrase better late than never?

Use โ€œbetter late than neverโ€ when you are discussing something that is being done behind schedule, or when responding to someone who is informing you of something they are doing in a tardy manner (e.g., โ€œItโ€™s great youโ€™re learning how to cook; better late than never, I always sayโ€).

It can be used in a sarcastic manner, particularly by the person receiving the action that is late (e.g., โ€œThanks for the birthday gift, even though itโ€™s two months late. Better late than never, I guessโ€).

Read this FAQ: When should I use the phrase better late than never?