College Savings, Personal Finance
Around the country, colleges, families and friends gather in celebration of the hard work and achievements of the class of 2013. While textbooks and tests as the graduates have come to know them go away, new assignments with strict deadlines will appear in the form of managing student debt, making payments on time and living within one’s means.
If you were to combine the total amount of all student loan debt, the tally would roughly be “between $902 billion and $1 trillion”, according to American Student Assistance (ASA). The amount owed by the average student amongst the 37 Continue Reading »
Budgeting, College Savings
For many College graduates Spring Break is often reminisced as reward for their dedication to hard work. It’s also a time that is remembered for not paying enough attention to finances.
Whether you are planning a trip for Spring Break, already on one, or want to be prepared for any vacation, these tips will help you have the most fun without leaving you with a financial hangover.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind – This is easier said than done, but put away the credit cards. You should have a budget set up for how much Continue Reading »
College Savings
A recent survey from Discover Student Loans found that more than 80% of parents of 16- to 18-year-olds believe college is important to their child’s future. Yet three-quarters of those same parents worry about being able to help out financially, while an even more overwhelming majority believe their children will need to shoulder at least some of the burden.
Here are a few tips to help make solving the college financing puzzle a little easier:
Make the most of your savings. Tax-favored 529 plans, as well as the similar Coverdell Education Savings Account, help parents make the most of Continue Reading »
College Savings
College students probably don’t spend too much time thinking about their finances. They swipe their debit or credit card, get a receipt, and move on their way. Money comes out of their account, but they rarely even see the cash.
This is both good and bad. On the one hand, students spend their time thinking about other more important things like tests, papers, and homework. On the other hand, if they don’t pay any attention to their personal finances while in college, they can end up with some pretty big problems on their hands.
Not thinking about money can get Continue Reading »
College Savings
So your college student has a cash flow problem. Not surprising, especially if she is now responsible for tuition and fees. You want to help, but how?
While college years aren’t likely to be the highest-earning period of your student’s life, they don’t have to be a financial bloodbath, either. With a little thought and planning, anyone can manage to generate a little extra cash.
For starters, there’s a part-time job. Focus on employers that cater to students’ schedules: restaurants, bookstores, coffee shops, and retail stores are just a few examples.
Another possibility is a side business. Is she Continue Reading »
