Oct
Children FIRST Program
Children FIRST is a program open to all babies born in North Dakota on or after January 1, 2011. Through the Children FIRST program, newborns can receive a $100 towards their college fund.
Complete the enrollment form, the Bank of North Dakota will make a $100 contribution for the baby. As part of the program you are to open a College SAVE account and contribute at least $100 within the next four years. Then you can continue contributing to the fund throughout the years. Even small amounts contributed can add up over time.
The application can be made by anyone, including parents, grandparents, aunts/uncles or friends. Only one grant is allowed per child.
If you don’t live in North Dakota, check your state website for the possibility of a program like this in your state.
Even if your children are older, check into starting a 529 plan for your children. It is one way to save for their college funds and some states offer tax benefits by contributing to the plans.
