HARRISBURG, September 13, 2012 –State Sen. Vincent Hughes is encouraging families to enroll online in the PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (GSP) in September to save $50 in enrollment fees.

The PA 529 GSP is administered by the state treasurer’s office. The program helps families save for higher education while keeping pace with rising tuition costs.

“Saving money for college is one of the major financial issues most families face,” Hughes said. “The PA 529 GSP plan is a great way to help families deal with the rising costs of tuition, especially during times of economic upheaval. By opening a PA 529 GSP account now through the end of September, families can save $50 in enrollment fees. Now is a great time to open a college savings account.”

To open or contribute to an account, visit www.PA529.com or call 1-800-440-4000. Constituents may use the code “Hughes” when they enroll online in the PA 529 GSP to waive the $50 enrollment fee.

Hughes added that grandparents and friends can also contribute to the student’s PA 529 GSP account online or by phone.

“Starting a savings account now for future education is a financially smart thing to do,” Hughes said. “As the costs of higher education rise, a PA 529 GSP plan will give families much needed peace of mind.

The contributions made to PA 529 plans are tax deductible and when they are used for qualified education expenses are state and federal tax exempt. PA 529 contributions grow at the rate of tuition inflation.

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