Kent County families invited to free event to jump-start college savings with $100 bonus

EAST GRAND RAPIDS - The Michigan Department of Treasury is inviting Kent County families to attend a free community enrollment session to learn how to start saving for college with as little as $25 - and receive a $100 enrollment bonus.

The Kent County community enrollment session will be held between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, at the East Grand Rapids Community Center (Room 105), 750 Lakeside Drive. Attendees can drop in at any time during the session to receive one-on-one help and guidance on Michigan's two 529 college savings programs: the Michigan Education Trust (MET) and the Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP). No appointment is necessary.

MET is the state's Section 529 prepaid tuition program, allowing families to purchase college tuition at today's rates. MESP is an investment-based savings plan offering flexible options for families.

Both programs are administered by the Michigan Department of Treasury.

The Kent County session is part of a statewide fall tour aimed at helping families take the first step toward college savings. MET recently lowered its minimal contribution to just $25, making it easier than ever to get started.

"When families see how starting small can make a big difference, the idea of saving for college becomes less daunting and more achievable," said Diane Brewer, executive director of MET. "We're meeting Michigan families where they are by helping them take that first confident step toward achieving their education goals."

In addition to personalized assistance, attendees will be eligible for an exclusive MET enrollment bonus of $100.* The limited-time offer is designed to help families maximize their college savings from the start.

Bonus eligibility requirements are available on MET's website.

Event Highlights:

• Learn the differences between MET and MESP and how each program can benefit your family.
• Save with MET's new $25 minimum contribution to take advantage of the $100 enrollment bonus.
• Plan with expert advice on savings strategies and payment options.

Since its inception in 1988, MET has helped more than 105,000 students' parents and grandparents to lock in college tuition at today's rates. MET contracts are eligible for state tax deductions, and both MET and MESP offer tax-advantaged growth when used for qualified higher education expenses.

"Families often just need a little guidance and reassurance to get started," Brewer said. "Events like this provide that one-on-one support so people can make informed choices about their children's education."

For more information about the Kent County event or Michigan's Section 529 plans, visit https://www.savewithMI529.com.

*Limit one bonus per beneficiary, lifetime.

About MET

MET is Michigan's Section 529 prepaid tuition savings program that allows the purchase of future tuition at any of the state's public universities and colleges at today's rates. The total contract price is eligible for a state tax deduction, and earnings are tax-exempt if used for qualified higher education expenses. MET funds can be used to pay out-of-state and Michigan private college and university tuition, and credits can also be transferred to other eligible family members.

About MESP

MESP is Michigan's direct-sold Section 529 college savings program that offers families various investment options. It also provides Michigan taxpayers with a state income tax deduction on contributions and potential tax-free growth on any earnings if account proceeds are used to pay for qualified higher education expenses. MESP can be used at any eligible college, university or trade school in the nation and some abroad. Qualified higher education expenses include tuition, fees, room, board, books, equipment and supplies required for enrollment. Limitations apply. See the MESP Disclosure Booklet for details.