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College savings

All TSP Funds Can be Bad

All TSP Funds Can Be Bad: Is the TSP the Best Place for Your Savings?

Before picking a TSP fund, ask whether the TSP is the right place for the money. Asset location, how each account is taxed, and each TSP fund's risk.
Let's Be Real About What Advisors Actually Do

Let’s Be Real About What Financial Advisors Actually Do

Who Brad is, how a fee-only fiduciary is paid, the industry practices to watch out for, and three real federal employee planning cases.
The #1 Mistake Parents Make in the College Search

The #1 Mistake Parents Make in the College Search

Letting your teenager run the college search can cost $100,000 or more. Why parents should lead, and how to keep college costs down.
A Good Advisor Will Tell You "No"

A Good Advisor Will Tell You “No”

Why an advisor who challenges you is worth more than one who always says yes, with real examples from TSP, debt and college decisions.
It Pays to Know the FAFSA

It Pays to Know the FAFSA

What the FAFSA's Student Aid Index means, which assets count, and what changed under FAFSA Simplification.
Options for College Savings Accounts

Options for College Savings Accounts

Custodial accounts, 529s, Coverdells and Roth IRAs: how each is taxed, how it counts on the FAFSA, and the current limits and rule changes.
Avoid Parent Plus Loans

Avoid Parent PLUS Loans: 7 Reasons

Parent PLUS loans now have caps and fewer repayment options. Seven reasons I tell parents to avoid them, with current rates and fees.
Lifestyle Creep

Lifestyle Creep: How to Stop Spending More as You Earn More

Lifestyle creep is spending that rises with your income. Brad explains why it happens and three budgeting methods that keep it in check.
When Colleges Compete You Win!

When Colleges Compete, You Win! How to Get More Financial Aid

Applying to several colleges gets schools competing for your student, and appealing your aid offer can save thousands a year.
Two Ways to Save on the Cost of College

Two Ways to Save on the Cost of College

Claim the American Opportunity Tax Credit and use federal student loans before you drain the 529: two ways to cut the cost of college.