How will you pay for college?

Newsworthy	May 2008

Smart uses for your tax refund
Each year, roughly 70 percent of Americans get an income tax refund. Thanks to the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008, beginning in early May most also will receive an additional tax rebate check of up to $600 (up to $1,200 for joint filers) - even those who don't earn enough to owe federal income tax.

Saving for College
Jean Chatzky’s Practical Money Series Helps You Make the Grade and Save for College
The numbers are so daunting you may not know where to start. College can now easily cost six figures. But careful planning in choosing the right college and the right financial options can make all the difference. Jean Chatzky offers practical tips on how to save and compare aid options so you’ll be sitting at the top of the class. Learn More

Financial Literacy Education: Early intervention is everything
Jean Chatzky on Financial Education
There's a very simple reason so many millions of Americans find themselves overwhelmed by personal debt. They don't know any better. They've just never received training that could help them manage their finances.

Money management skills aren't something you're born with. They're something you're taught and learn how to do. Yet millions of young adults graduate from high school and college without basic skills - things like balancing a checkbook or critically comparing credit card offers. Read More

Innovative Educator: Susan Wilkerson, Stand Watie Elementary School, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
There are few places on earth where people actually enjoy paying taxes and making mortgage payments. But in Susan Wilkerson's fifth-grade classroom in Oklahoma City, students actually get a kick and an education out of managing their money. Find out how. Read more...

Financial Literacy & Education Summit 2008
From the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
Today's youth are struggling with money and debt. That's why the 2008 summit, addresses practical and policy changes to make America's young adults better money managers. Personal finance expert Jean Chatzky moderated a compelling panel at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Speakers included Chris Gardner whose inspirational life story, celebrated in the award-winning book and film, The Pursuit of Happyness, revealed how financial education took him from being a homeless father to a self-made millionaire. Click here to view the webcast now.

Free FICO® Score Estimator
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Jason Alderman’s Practical Money Matters

May 2, 2008
Graduating to 'the real world'
Anyone who's graduated from college understands the relief of leaving behind years of cramming for exams and living on dorm food. With the next chapter of their lives now at hand, this year's grads deserve kudos for successfully negotiating the twists and turns of higher education.

April 25, 2008
Help mom plan for financial security
As Mother's Day approaches, it's worth noting that most women still face significantly more hurdles to achieving financial security than do men, especially at retirement. A few statistics say it all.