Before Investing in a “529” Plan, Employees Should Ask the Right Questions

With the cost of a college education soaring, many employees may be seeking the best way to pay for their children's college education. This week’s column presents the questions that employees should ask before investing in a “529” college savings plan. Also presented are some of the 529 plan withdrawal pitfalls 529 owners should be aware of. View More

Informed Investor: Back-to-school checklist for parents of college students

Many employees have children either attending college this fall, or who will be attending next fall. This week’s column presents a back to school “checklist” for these parents, including when to apply for financial aid, taking advantage of the education tax credits, contributing to 529 college savings plans, and increasing the limits of coverage on homeowner insurance policies. View More

Do student loan payments come with any strings attached?Apr 06, 2014

To receive student loan repayment benefits, you would have to sign a service agreement to remain in the service of the agency for at least three years. View More

Are there any federal tax breaks available related to college savings?Feb 11, 2015

Depending on your modified adjusted gross income, you may be eligible for: The American Opportunity Tax Credit of the first 100 percent of $2,000 of qualified higher education expenses, plus 25 percent of the next $2,000 of qualified expenses for the first four years. View More

Should college savings funds be in my name or in my children’s names?May 07, 2014

Are any other investments specifically advantageous for college savings?May 07, 2014

What is a qualified tuition program?May 07, 2014

Will savings impact my child’s eligibility for need-based financial aid?May 07, 2014

What are some sources of merit-based aid?May 07, 2014

Are there any scholarship programs especially for federal employees and their families?May 07, 2014

Are scholarships tax-free?May 07, 2014

Should I borrow for college? May 07, 2014

What types of federal loans might be available?May 07, 2014

What are the advantages of federal loans over others? May 07, 2014

What kind of investment vehicles should college savings be in?May 01, 2014

Should my priority for savings be my own retirement or my children’s college education?May 01, 2014

How can I project the total cost attending a college?May 01, 2014