UNDATED - It's never too early - or too late - to start saving for a child's post-secondary education.

That's the message from State Treasurer Tom Briese, who touted Nebraska's 529 savings plan throughout September after Gov. Jim Pillen declared it College Savings Month in Nebraska.

The college savings plan allows Nebraskans to make tax-deductible contributions into an account where earnings can grow tax free.

Briese says that while contributors can get tax benefits, the greater benefit can be seen in the student who can go to college with part of the cost already defrayed.

"Those dollars in the account can be professionally managed," Briese said in an interview with News Channel Nebraska. "There can be a nice state tax deduction for contributions to that account. The earnings within the account can grow tax free. They can be withdrawn at a later date by a child or grandchild for college-related expenses. We think it's a great program. It's a win-win-win for everyone."

The accounts are eligible to all Nebraska children, whether they go to a 4-year, 2-year, or trade school.

Briese says getting more kids into post-secondary education will have long-term impact on what's become a workforce crisis in Nebraska.

"As a former senator and current state treasurer I'm always looking for ways to grow our state and create opportunities for young folks to live and work and raise their families in Nebraska," Briese said.

A recent study by a non-profit that helps students get into secondary education found that on average, the cost of a public 4-year in-state institution is over $11,000.

More info on Nebraska's 529 savings plans can be found at THIS LINK.