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Student Loan Debt

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There is over $1.2 trillion of student loan debt in the United States.1 Consider these ways to save money before college, rather than burdening yourself with debt afterwards.

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Research the cost of tuition and fees, room and board, and general living expenses at the schools you are interested in. This will give you a goal to work towards. Remember to include things like books, activity fees, study abroad possibilities, and a calculator and/or computer. Make A Change
Cut back on general living expenses now, save the difference, and get used to a smaller data plan, last year’s fashions and fewer cable channels. It is easier to make small changes over time than deprive yourself all at once. Consider each of your monthly expenses and …show more content…

The earlier you open your account, the more interest you will earn, and the less temptation you will have to spend your savings. Ideally you need an account where it is easy to put money in, less easy to take it out, and has a strong and steady long term rate of return. It may be helpful to work with a financial planner to determine the best account for you. One popular option is a 529 plan, or "an education savings plan operated by a state or educational institution designed to help families set aside funds for future college costs.”2 Another option is a Coverdell Education Savings Account, which is similar to a 529 plan but can also be used for primary and secondary school. Plans vary by state, but typically there are no residency requirements and funds from any plan can be used at any eligible school. A third option is a Roth IRA. These are primarily used as retirement accounts, but can sometimes be used for qualified educational expenses. And if you decide not to finish school, the money is still available for your retirement later.3 In these investment accounts, your earning potential is higher, but so is the risk. Once your account is established, consider asking for donations to your college savings account in lieu of gifts from friends and

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