Whether college is 18 years away or right around the corner, these strategies will help jump-start your college savings plans.
Figuring the Cost
Knowing how much you'll need for your college-bound kid is the first step.
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Smart Strategies
Compare savings options and pick the best place for your college dollars.
With 18 Years to Go
Time is on your side. Save often and aggressively to outpace inflation.
With Ten Years to Go
Fewer day-care expenses and rising salaries may make saving easier than you think.
With Five Years to Go
It's time to start shifting some money to fixed-income securities for safe keeping.
With One Year to Go
You're not there yet. You still have four years of tuition bills to pay. Look for free money and line up loans.
Last Minute Ways to Ease the Pain
If you haven't saved a dime, these resources and tips can help.
Winning the Financial Aid Game
Even the most expensive schools may be within reach with these maximizing strategies.
Figuring the Cost
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I'm retired with $2.2 million saved and work 2 retail shifts a week for fun. My young colleague just got her hours cut, and I don't need the money. Should I quit so she can have my shifts?We asked certified financial planners for advice.
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Could an Annuity Be Your Retirement Safety Net?More people are considering annuities to achieve tax-deferred growth and guaranteed income, but deciding if they are right for you depends on these key factors.
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Older Taxpayers: Don't Miss This Hefty (Temporary) Tax BreakIf you're age 65 or older, you can claim a "bonus" tax deduction of up to $6,000 through 2028 that can be stacked on top of other deductions.
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New Ways to Use 529 PlansTax-free withdrawals from 529 plans could help you sharpen your job skills.
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I Want to Help Pay for My Grandkids' College. Should I Make a Lump-Sum 529 Plan Contribution or Spread Funds out Through the Years?We asked a college savings professional and a financial planning expert for their advice.
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Banks Are Sounding the Alarm About StablecoinsThe Kiplinger Letter The banking industry says stablecoins could have a negative impact on lending.
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Big Changes Are Ahead for Higher EdThe Kiplinger Letter A major reform of higher ed is underway. Colleges are bracing for abrupt change, financial headwinds and uncertainty.
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What New Tariffs Mean for Car ShoppersThe Kiplinger Letter Car deals are growing scarcer. Meanwhile, tax credits for EVs are on the way out, but tax breaks for car loans are coming.
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AI’s Rapid Rise Sparks New Cyber ThreatsThe Kiplinger Letter Cybersecurity professionals are racing to ward off AI threats while also using AI tools to shore up defenses.
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Blue Collar Workers Add AI to Their ToolboxesThe Kiplinger Letter AI can’t fix a leak or install lighting, but more and more tradespeople are adopting artificial intelligence for back-office work and other tasks.
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AI Goes To SchoolThe Kiplinger Letter Artificial intelligence is rapidly heading to K-12 classrooms nationwide. Expect tech companies to cash in on the fast-emerging trend.
