College Resources & News from CFNC

One of the most common questions parents have about an NC 529® Plan is when should I set up an NC 529 Account? It’s a simple question with a straightforward answer — now! That’s because it’s never too early to start saving for your child’s higher education.

When it comes to saving your money, it’s important that you understand how a college savings vehicle works. We know that investing in a savings account for college can be a little confusing, especially if you are not familiar with financial jargon about your investment.

The North Carolina National College Savings Program (NC 529 Plan) joined Marble’s Kids Museum in Raleigh, NC, for their Fourth Annual Kids Car Fair. During the fair, children are introduced to a variety of career fields, from news casters to dentists. More than 30 local professionals participated in the event and children had a wonderful time exploring various paths that they may pursue one day.

Congratulations to Mark Pearn of Kernersville. As posted in the News & Record, Mark won an extra $529 to add to the NC 529 College Savings Account he owns for his son. He did so by entering the Lucky 3 Drawing that was held by the North Carolina’s National College Savings Plan during the later part of 2016.

The NC 529 Lucky 3 Drawing was most recently held in the Fall 2016. Those who contributed to their NC 529 Account during the drawing were entered for a chance to have an additional $529 added to their Account. We’re pleased to have had so many entries, as this means many people took another step in saving for college.

New Year’s Resolutions are all about improving your life and making plans for a better future. Of course, we all want to be grateful, healthy, and good to those around us. The beginning of a New Year is also a great time to consider financial and future goals.

As parents, we always want the best for our children. But in the busy eighteen years from birth through high school graduation, sometimes preparation for a child’s future higher education gets put on the back burner.

From baby’s first gurgle or giggle, parents begin to dream of their child’s future and try to figure out how to handle the associated costs of parenthood. Some parents immediately dive into saving for their child’s education.

During the holidays and on special occasions, it’s fun to spoil the children in our lives. Twenty-five dollars can buy a variety of gifts – balls, gift cards and games. As WFMY notes, it can also give the gift of education.

The US News and World Report recently featured a Durham, NC grandfather who is helping his family save for college. Instead of giving physical gifts during the holiday season, he is contributing money to his grandson’s college savings plan each year. And, he’s not alone. According to the article, 84% of parents would prefer that their children receive money for college in place of physical gifts during the holidays.