Backpacks are packed, supplies are purchased, and pencils are sharpened—school is back in session. While September is a big month for back to school, it's also National College Savings Month. To celebrate, we’ve created a great video on the benefits of opening a 529 plan.

Now is a great time to take a look at your monthly finances and find small opportunities to save for a college education. These small amounts can potentially go a long way and you'll find that you won't even miss the money!

Many employers have introduced 529s as a voluntary benefit so contributing a small amount to a 529 through an automatic payroll direct deposit is simple and efficient.

September is also the start of open enrollment season and a great time to review all of the employer wellness benefits available to you at work. From retirement and health benefits, to healthy eating and exercise programs, more employers are investing in you! Employer benefits can help ensure your physical health, emotional health and financial health. You may even be eligible for various discounts so take time to explore the various wellness programs today and look for a 529 to make it easy to save for college.

Here are a few examples of ways that you can find extra dollars:

1. Brown bag it: Instead of buying lunch every day, pack and bring your lunch to work. You could save $120 a month.¹
2. Drop cable for online streaming: You can still watch your favorite shows and movies without maintaining an additional bill. Studies show that doing so could save an average of $65 a month.²
3. Lose the landline: Cutting the cord can help you consolidate your contact information and save $45 a month.³
4. Be a discount shopper: Waiting for sales, using coupons, and price matching can help you save $40 a month.⁴