Education funding tips

October 2018 – For those in ‘Back to School mode’, we know that one of the best ways to ensure our child’s success is through post-secondary education. Higher education often leads to higher future earnings; and with higher earnings comes a more secure financial future. However, it doesn’t seem to matter if our children are beginning pre-school or university, the cost of this post secondary education usually comes to mind. Starting early is the key to make it affordable, and using a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) will certainly help. Your savings will receive a 20% matching Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) up to a maximum of $2,500 in a given year ($7,200 lifetime). You may also be able to apply retroactively for missed CESG grants and qualify for additional government bonds. BC has a Training and Education Savings Grant (BCTESG) as well. Don’t miss the opportunity to invest early so your contributions, grants and bonds grow and compound over as much time as possible.