Save for college

Saving money for college is always a good thing, and every penny helps. Even if you just save enough money to pay for books, you're doing great.

Most people aren’t able to save enough money to cover all college costs. That's why there's financial aid. So don't let the big numbers make you nervous – you'll be able to pay for college one way or another. But the more that comes from savings, the better off you'll be.

What are you waiting for? Check out these resources to help you get started:

• Saving for College on FinAid.org. This section of FinAid.org provides an overview of why and how you and your family should save money for college. Geared as much towards parents as students, it also includes links to a number of savings-related articles on FinAid, including articles about 529 college savings plans.
• SavingForCollege.com. This website provides descriptions and access to college savings plans, including many with tax benefits, available to you and your family. Clear descriptions of what savings options are available, including 529 college savings plans, make this a great place to start.
• Federal Tax Benefits for Tuition and Fees. A parent and student guide to Federal Tax Benefits for Tuition and Fees. This guide is produced by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.
• Tax Benefits for Education. An IRS publication about education tax credits.
• Oklahoma 529 College Savings Plan. This plan will benefit you and your family before and during college. The program offers tax advantages, including a $10,000 state income tax deduction. Initial contributions are as little as $100 and continuing contributions as small as $25 or $15 through payroll deduction. Funds can be withdrawn as needed and used for college expenses at nearly all colleges and universities in the United States.
• Oklahoma Money Matters. Learn how to successfully manage your money, understand consumer credit issues, and plan for tomorrow.
• University of Oklahoma - Financial Education. The Financial Education & Counseling Center (FEd) has been established to provide University of Oklahoma students free information about managing their finances and the resources they will need to graduate with as little debt as possible. The FEd has four main components that make up its C.O.R.E.: Counseling, Outreach, Research, & Employment. C.O.R.E. also has services available for high school students.