Even small amounts can make a difference
As the following chart shows, contributing $50 every month could mean having a total of $23,482 after 18 years. Saving more can mean greater growth over time.

There is an additional feature of this plan that can help you save. Friends and family can contribute too. Together, your contributions can really add up for that special child 's education.

Tax deferral and compounding can work for you
Any earnings on money you contribute to the plan help build your account savings. So the sooner you begin, the longer the benefits of tax deferral and compounding can work for you. For example, if you began contributing $50 a month right now for a new baby, you could have a total of $23,482 when the baby reaches age 18. Waiting six years could mean having less than half of what you might have if you started now.

The plan is convenient
With the plan, saving can also be very convenient. Rather than sending a check, you can have contributions automatically withdrawn from your bank account (amounts as low as $25 on whatever schedule your bank permits).Or, if you participate through payroll deduction, you can make automatic contributions.

You do not need investment experience
The DC College Savings Plan offers an age-based portfolio.You simply make an investment in the age band that matches the account beneficiary's age. As the beneficiary reaches pre-set ages, account assets are automatically moved into the next appropriate age band.

For more information on the DC College Savings Plan, please contact your financial advisor or call 800.987.4859 (800.368.2745 for non-District residents).  An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of an investment carefully before investing.  The District of Columbia College Savings Trust Program Disclosure Booklet contains this and other information.  Read it carefully before you invest or send money. An investor should also consider, before investing, whether the investor's or designated beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in such state's 529 college savings plan.