Back to School Savings

August 14, 2012
by Jennifer Armstrong
National Guard Bureau
Family Programs Financial Readiness Program Manager Joint Staff J-1It’s the most wonderful time of the year…. 

I love summer. I love to water ski, go to the lake and bask in the heat. I simply love it. But when my daughter was in elementary and high school do you know what my favorite time of year was? BACK TO SCHOOL! I am doing the happy dance as I type this! No more whining about how there’s nothing to do. No more whining allowed! No more television at 2300! You have got to go to bed! School is in session.  However, the reality was I was not fond of the many expenses that I had to incur. I wondered how often would she really use that compass and why did she need it the first day of school? Were they going to draw concentric circles their first day of school? Then there were the uniforms. She went to elementary school in Oceanside California. They wore uniforms. I thought I loved that idea. But can you tell me what 7 year old can keep a white polo shirt white?

If any of this sounds like you, you’re faced with the purchasing of various school supplies, maybe not just for one, but for multiple children. Or maybe you’re a teacher who doesn’t get reimbursed for supplies.  How do we cut costs for this most wonderful time of the year? Read on…

Paying For College: Where to Get Money for Your Education

August 13, 2012
Originally published on USAA.com

With high tuition and the tough job market, you may wonder if getting a college degree is still worth the cost. It is, according to recent research.

A U.S. Census Bureau study released in September 2011 shows your education level affects your paycheck: If you work full time and year-round, a bachelor's degree can help you earn between $681,000 and $1.2 million more than a high school diploma.
To help find the cash to pay for an education in today's economy, here are five methods and their pros and cons.