With many Florida families struggling to just get by, you might think saving is out of the question. But the College Savings Foundation reports in 2009, investment in college savings plans was up nearly 15 percent, and that parents using tax-sheltered 529 plans, like the Florida Prepaid College Plan, are more successful savers than those without them. ??

According to Duane Ottenstroer, chairman of the Florida Prepaid College Board (FPCP), many people think they cannot afford to save for college in this economy, but he says they can’t afford not to. ??

“College tuition and fees are rising at a rate that approaches double digits, and so it’s important to get a contract and get those costs tied down,” he said.

• Ottenstroer says you can buy four years of college for as little as a one-time fee of $12,000, or about $100 per month. He explains the younger the child, the less it costs to invest.??

“If you start today it’s going to be less expensive than if you start tomorrow or the day after tomorrow. If you save through a prepaid tuition program you’re assured that when your child grows up and needs to go to college that his tuition will be covered, and the state of Florida stands behind it,”?? he said.

Ottenstroer also said Florida tuition costs are rising to meet the national average, and for the first time, the Bright Futures Scholarship does not cover full tuition, but the Florida Prepaid College Plan can bridge that gap.

The plan can be used in any state, and can be transferred to another family member or reimbursed, if the child decides not to go to college. ??The FPCP is the largest in the country, and open enrollment on the plan begins Oct. 18. More information: www.myfloridaprepaid.com or 1-800-552-GRAD.