Michigan Education Savings Program Cuts Fees, Launches Web Site

The Michigan Department of Treasury and TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing Inc. announced a third reduction in fees since the launch of the Michigan Education Savings Program in November 2000, and launched a new Web site.

Effective Oct. 25, the total annual asset-based fee, the only fee account owners pay on an MESP account, was reduced from 0.45 percent to 0.35 percent per year. The Principal Plus Interest Option continues to be offered without a fee. The total annual asset based fee covers the cost of operations, investment management and marketing of MESP. There are no other fees associated with MESP including broker commissions. The reduction in fees will help more than 105,000 MESP account owners.

"MESP continues to strive to be a low cost 529 college savings plan so more of our investors' funds can go toward their college savings goals and less toward administrative costs," said Pamela McNulty, director of MESP. "TIAA-CREF is committed to working with the Michigan Department of Treasury to help families and students reach their education vision and accomplish their college savings goals."

MESP also recently unveiled a new Web site with enhanced e-delivery options, easier access for account owners, and new webinars for interested families seeking to learn more about the program.

Visit www.misaves.com to learn more about these new features and benefits, which include:

* e-delivery of statements and disclosure information
* online withdrawals
* a college savings planner to project potential tax savings and college savings goals
* Webinar opportunities for families to learn about MESP
* new iPhone and Android applications available

The Michigan Department of Treasury and TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. are also celebrating MESP's 10-year anniversary. The Program has grown close to $2.5 billion in assets since the launch of MESP in November, 2000.

Kiplinger, the financial trade publication, has also chosen MESP as one of the "Top 529 Plans in the Nation" for 2010.  Besides low fees, Michigan 529 plans are the only 529 plans that offer Michigan residents a potential state income tax deduction on program contributions.

To learn more about MESP, visit www.misaves.com or call (877) 861-6377.

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