Press Release, March 30, 2009
In today’s economy, costs seem to be rising across the board and many families are struggling to put aside money for long‑term goals such as funding a child’s college education. It’s estimated that by 2020 it will cost $225,000 to put a child through a private college or $105,000 to send them to a public university.1
Primerica, a financial services industry leader, offers four tips to help clients make their college savings go farther.
- Start Now. No matter how old (or young) children are, it’s a good idea for families to start saving as soon as possible to try to keep up with the rising costs of tuition, room and board. Sock aside money each month in a savings account or consider investing in the stock market to take advantage of dollar‑cost averaging (investing a certain amount consistently over a long period of time) to boost potential returns.2
- Compare Plans. There are several government programs designed to help families save for college. Many plans allow you to take advantage of tax‑deferred saving while investing in the stock market, including: 529s, which are state‑sponsored investment accounts; Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, which allow parents to contribute up to $2,000 a year; and prepaid tuition plans which allow families to lock in current rates for future tuition.
- Don’t Neglect Retirement. Saving for a child’s education is important, but so is saving for retirement. It’s important for parents to keep in mind that their kids will have other options when paying for college – such as grants and loans – that aren’t available for the “golden” retirement years.
- Boost income. Start a part‑time business or work a few hours a week at a second job to beef up a college savings or retirement savings account. Business opportunities, such as Primerica’s part‑ or full‑time opportunity, are great ways to do something enjoyable while earning extra money each month.3 More information is available here: www.PrimericaBusinessOpportunity.com.
With the tough economy, it may seem difficult to put money aside every month, but every little bit helps. The key is consistency. Whether clients are saving for college or preparing for retirement, following these simple tips can make a big difference in the long run.
- MSNMoney.com, viewed September 4, 2007
- Investment in the stock market entails some risk. Investment return and principal may fluctuate. Shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than the original cost.
- In Canada, the part‑time option is not available in all jurisdictions and, where it is available, is subject to certain restrictions.
You should carefully consider a mutual fund’s risk, fees, charges, and expenses before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about mutual funds. You should read and carefully consider this information before investing. Prospectuses are available from your PFS Investments registered representative.
Consider the Program's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses before investing. The Program Disclosure Statement contains more information that should be read carefully before investing. You can obtain a Program Disclosure Statement from your PFS Investments Registered Representative. You should consider before investing whether your or the beneficiary's home state offers a 529 Plan that provides state tax and other benefits only available to investments in that plan
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