NEW YORK – (January 21, 2014) . The U.S. Department of Education says it takes 5.2 years to complete a four-year college education, which after the purchase of a home, is a family’s largest expense. Thus, exploring, selecting, applying and paying for college is a laborious process that could include numerous pitfalls.

To help families – parents and their children – understand and gain insights into making the college planning process easier is the goal of the NYSSCPAs Westchester Chapter’s “Annual College Planning Event” to be held Tuesday, February 11, 2014 at Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.

The free event – which starts at 6:15 p.m. in the college’s Victory Hall – will feature college planning experts Gary Carpenter, CPA and owner of College Planning Services and Al Hoffman, director of the College Funding Service Center (CFSC) and co-founder and board member of the National College Advocacy Group (NCAG).

Their presentation will include a discussion of the college admissions process, college costs and funding sources, the financial aid process, educational tax benefits, 529 college savings plans, scholarships and other awards.

All attendees will receive a free copy of the comprehensive College Checklist and Timeline for Applying for College booklet.