If the job you lost wasn't in the field of your dreams, then right now is a great time to retrain or to return to school (and the government may just be willing to foot the bill.)

As parents we have a vested interest in raising our children to be responsible, independent adults who have a real grasp on the value of a dollar. There are three money lessons that every kid must learn to help them achieve that independence.

There are fewer scholarships available for primary and secondary private and parochial scohols. Scholarships, or voucher programs, are available from a variety of private and government sources.

The Coverdell Education Savings Account is a tax-advantaged way of saving for college.

Section 529 college savings plans are among the best ways of saving for college. The earnings on contributions are tax-deferred and distributions are tax-free if used to pay for qualified higher education expenses.

The tax-free nature of the 529 plan has a wonderful ring to it until we have an “uncooperative” equity market. So, what should you do if your investments in the 529 plan take a spiraling nose dive? Can you take advantage of the loss for tax purposes?

Gitf-tax limits apply to 529 college savings plans...sort of. There is a loophole that lets you give more than $13,000 to a 529 plan in one year.

The tax benefits that come with investing in a 529 college savings plan make them one of the best ways to save for college. But the tax benefits can vary depending on the 529 plan so be sure to do your homework before choosing your college savings plan.

Yes, it's possible to start an IRA for your child.

Tuition at both public and private institutions is rarely something that a family can tackle on their own, but loans and nationwide scholarships contests are not the only options.