College may become more affordable for some individuals in New Jersey, now that Gov. Murphy signed the New Jersey College Affordability Act into law. Here’s how it works.

To qualify, taxpayers must open and contribute to a New Jersey Better Educational Savings Trust (NJBEST) account, New Jersey’s 529 college savings plan.

Who Qualifies for the NJ College Affordability Act?

Taxpayers with a gross income of $75,000 or less will be eligible for a one-time grant of up to $750 in a dollar-to-dollar match of the initial account deposit.

Taxpayers earning $200,000 or less become eligible for a gross income tax deduction for the amounts contributed to the NJBEST account. Deductions will not exceed $10,000 in contributions. They also become eligible to deduct the amounts paid toward in-state tuition (not exceeding $10,000).

All eligible taxpayers would also be allowed to deduct up to $2,500 from gross income for the principal and interest paid on a student loan under the New Jersey College Loans to Assist State Students (NJCLASS) Loan Program.

Why the NJ College Affordability Act Was Passed

Senate unanimously approved the bill to make college more affordable and provide financial incentives for pursuing education.

Many universities froze tuition during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many major institutions are now raising tuition for the 2021-2022 school year, once again providing financial challenges to students.

According to Forbes, the cost of attending a traditional four-year university has been rising at twice the inflation rate, and two-year community colleges a third faster.

According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, a bachelor’s degree cost an average of $5,504 per year in 1985, and in 2017 it cost $27,357. In 2020, the average cost at a private college was $37,650, and the numbers are expected to rise.

Real median household income, even factoring in inflation, has never risen at these rates.

More Help Paying for College

The last tax relief package that was passed including several provisions related to education and financial aid. Here are some key highlights about financial aid changes that may benefit you and your student.

To learn how to set up a NJBEST account and receive your benefits, contact your Access Wealth advisor.