The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provides better education cost breaks to more taxpayers for 2009 and 2010. Computers, certain software and internet access can be covered by tax free 529 plan distributions as long as they are used by an eligible student while enrolled at an eligible institution.  The ARRA also replaces the Hope [...]

Finding the motivation to save can be just as difficult as motivating yourself to diet and exercise. In both cases you know the outcome will be worthwhile — financial security and better health. However, taking the steps to get there is easier said than done.

Naturally parents want to provide the best for their children. For many parents today this means paying for them to earn a college degree. This is an admirable goal, and one that their children will greatly appreciate when they graduate free from student loan debt. But what does saving for the ever-rising cost of college tuition mean for their other lifestyle goals?