TNStars is Nationally Recognized as a Top Performing College Savings 529 Plan

TNStars College Savings 529 plan has been recognized as one of the top direct-sold plans in the nation. TNStars is a program of the Tennessee Department of Treasury. TNStars is ranked as the no. 2 plan in the country according to SavingForCollege.org, who recently released the top ten direct-sold 529 plans in the nation based on one-year performance rankings as of September 30, 2014. The achievement is particularly notable as the TNStars plan is only in its third year, but has quickly risen to the top of its class. In a previous ranking, the plan was ranked eighth in the nation.

TNStars is designed to give Tennessee families high quality investment options at a low cost to help them put aside money for higher education expenses, while enjoying certain tax advantages and special incentives. Tennesseans can invest directly with the program, without having to go through a plan manager. Money can be withdrawn from a TNStars account tax-free as long as it is used for qualified higher education expenses.

State Treasurer David Lillard was especially excited to hear the news. “TNStars has entered its third year as a strong 529 Plan that has provided Tennessee families with solid investment options to help them grow their savings for higher education.”

TNStars is also giving away nearly $11,000 in scholarships. There is just one month left to apply to win one of two $5,290 scholarships and get a huge jumpstart on saving for college. One scholarship will go to a Kindergarten through second grade student who participates in the TNStars Coloring Contest. Third through eighth grade students who complete the fun, interactive series of games that helps teach financial literacy, will be eligible to win the second $5,290 scholarship.

Families interested in opening a savings account with TNStars can currently receive up to $375 in incentives. Money saved in a TNStars 529 account, including any extra incentives, can be used not only for post-secondary education tuition and fees, but also additional related expenses such as course books, room and board, and equipment and supplies required for attendance and enrollment at a qualified institution.

To enter the contest, learn more about opening a TNStars account or participate in this nationally-ranked college savings program, visit www.TNStars.com.