Not every item is necessary for college - Bills.com News

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Not every item is necessary for college

Monday, Aug 31, 2009
By Peter Krowiak

One tradition among parents with children going to college is that big shopping run that gets their students ready for life on their own.

However, given the costs of tuition and parents trying to find some debt relief , there are some things people can avoid buying when getting their kids prepared for school. A recent report from Kiplingers.com noted there are a number of things parents can avoid getting.

When itcomes to supplies, some colleges require that each student have a laptop. However, that doesn't mean parents should break the bank on a new computer.

"An inexpensive laptop or netbook should meet your student's computer needs," the report said.

Another thing parents should discourage their kids from having is a credit card. According to a recent report from Sallie Mae, credit card debt is becoming an increasing problem for college students. The average credit card debt for a graduating senior was $4,100 in 2008, compared to $2,900 in 2004.

Kiplinger also
recommends that parents not allow their children to have a credit card. The report said parents should have their children prove they know how to handle their money before taking on the responsibility of a credit line.

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