(Jackson, Mississippi) -  Consumer Reports awarded the Mississippi Affordable College Savings plan (MACS) an “A” on its performance during last year’s stock-market plunge, based on its investment flexibility, low expenses, and fees. MACS was listed in the top five best performing 529 college savings plans out of 88 plans nationwide.

The Office of State Treasurer Tate Reeves administers the College Savings Plans of Mississippi, which include both the MACS investment program and the MPACT prepaid tuition plan. Reeves said the news from Consumer Reports was very encouraging, considering today’s unstable economic climate.

“MACS is a smart and flexible way for families to invest for their child’s education,” said Reeves. “The key is to start saving early.”  

In 2008, annual college cost escalated an average of 5.7 percent, according to the article, at four year universities nationwide. But many states, including Mississippi, have trimmed college budgets. Inevitably, students will have to carry more of the burden of college expenses. A solution to these rising college costs are Section 529 college savings plans, such as MACS.  This 529 plan, managed by TIAA-CREF, offers allocations based on age, which are designed to take more risk early and shift to a more conservative investment option later.

Along with a variety of investment options, MACS also offers its customers a Mississippi State
Tax Deduction and earnings are exempt from Federal and State income tax. Contributions made by April 15th could still be eligible for a deduction; limitations may apply.

In addition to the MACS program, the State Treasurer’s Office also administers the Mississippi Prepaid Affordable College Tuition program, MPACT. This program is guaranteed by the State of Mississippi and allows families to lock in at today’s college tuition prices, regardless of future tuition increases. MPACT provides another opportunity to save for college safely and affordably, and it can also be claimed as a tax deduction on Mississippi Income Tax.

For more information on College Savings Mississippi programs, please visit www.collegesavingsmississippi.com or call 800-987-4450 or 601-359-5255.