A chance to snag a Black Friday deal with $50 bonus for college savings

As the holiday shopping season marks its traditional opening on Black Friday, the Michigan Education Trust (MET) wants to help shoppers put a little something extra under their tree on the way to a debt-free college future.

"Black Friday is all about finding deals, and not just on electronics and new clothes. Education is a gift that never goes out of style, and this is one bargain you don't want to miss," said Diane Brewer, executive director of MET, Michigan's 529 prepaid tuition savings program.

MET allows families to prepurchase college credits at today's prices, protecting against future tuition hikes. Plus, purchases made before Dec. 31, 2024, qualify for a Michigan state income tax deduction this year for eligible Michigan residents. MET funds can be used to pay out-of-state and Michigan private college and university tuition. MET credits can also be transferred to other eligible family members.

With the Black Friday Bonus promotion, purchasers can score a $50 bonus while building for a brighter future for young people who may be years away from visions of college dancing in their heads but whose families are already planning to foot the bill.

Brewer encouraged Michiganders to "take a break from the shopping carts and long checkout lines."

"With tuition prices rising, MET is a smart, practical gift for your family's future and one that lasts a lifetime," Brewer said. "Our Black Friday promotion offers an easy and rewarding way for families to invest in a brighter tomorrow, but don't wait because the bonus deal ends on Cyber Monday."

From Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, through Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, MET is offering the bonus to families who start or grow their college savings with a MET 529 prepaid tuition savings plan.

For details and eligibility requirements, visit Black Friday Bonus Rules.

How it works:

• New Customers: Open a new Pay-As-You-Go MET account using coupon code BLKFRI24 and make your initial credit hour payment to get a $50 bonus.
• Existing Customers: Contribute $200 or more to an existing Pay-As-You-Go MET account during the promotional period to claim your $50 bonus.

Why MET makes the perfect gift:

• Portable and Flexible: Funds can be used at colleges, universities and technical schools nationwide.
• Transferable: Share benefits with family members or get a refund if plans change.
• Tax-Free: Withdrawals for qualified educational expenses are free from state and federal taxes.