The Earlier

You start to save, the better off you could be when it's time for college.

When it comes to saving for education, time can be one of your greatest advantages. Starting now can give investments more opportunity to grow, helping you be better prepared when the tuition bill arrives.

+This chart assumes an initial contribution of $3,000 and a hypothetical 6% return on investments. Calculations are based on bankrate.com/calculators/savings/simple-savings-calculator.aspx. Hypothetical results are for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to represent the past or future performance of an actual investment in any particular 529 plan or any taxes or penalties payable upon distribution.