CHARLESTON, W.Va. – If you open a SMART529 College Savings Plan during your child’s first year, the program will give you $100 to kick-start your child’s college savings. State Treasurer John Perdue made that announcement today as he unveiled the new Bright Babies Grant Program at events in Charleston and Morgantown.

Treasurer Perdue said any child born after January 1, 2015 who has not celebrated their first birthday is eligible. In addition, any adopted child who has yet to celebrate the one-year anniversary of his or her adoption can claim the $100 grant. The only other requirement is that the child must be a resident of West Virginia.

“We know there is a lot going on when a family brings home a new addition,” said Treasurer Perdue. “The hope is that by giving away $100, we’ll attract more parents sooner to the SMART529 program. The sooner you start to save, the more money you have to pay for your child’s college education.”

The Treasurer toured the new baby units at both CAMC Women and Children’s Hospital and the WVU Children’s Hospital in Morgantown to talk to new mothers about the program.

Visit www.SMART529.com to open a SMART529 account and to learn more about the Bright Babies Grant Program. SMART529 is West Virginia’s 529 savings program for education beyond high school.