People say there's no such thing as free money, but Upromise comes pretty darn close. You simply sign up, register your credit or debit cards and go about your everyday spending. Tax-free dollars for college accumulate while you shop – courtesy of more than 600 retailers who want to make college more affordable for Americans. (Sure, they also hope to win your shopping loyalty, but we'll give them a little credit for supporting the cause.)

Upromise is a rewards program that costs nothing to join, and once you're a member, you earn college dollars in one of three ways. First, shop online through Upromise.com and get 1 percent to 25 percent back from eligible purchases at more than 600 retailers, including the ones you probably already frequent. Second, dine at one of 8,000 participating restaurants and earn up to 8 percent back when you pay with a credit or debit card that you've registered with Upromise. (It's important to note that you can register your existing credit card(s), so if you're earning mileage or other rewards, you will continue to do so while simultaneously earning college dollars through your Upromise membership.) Third, activate Grocery eCoupons each month so you can earn while purchasing grocery and drugstore items.

The money you earn from your everyday spending through Upromise partners goes directly into your Upromise account. You may choose to invest your earnings in a high-yield savings account or tax-deferred 529 plan, or use it to pay down a student loan. You also may request a check that can be used for college or other expenses.

Now, it's important to realize that we're not talking about a lot of money here, but every dollar counts when it comes to saving for college. And the sooner you start, the better. Put your savings into the appropriate growth vehicle now, and hundreds can turn into thousands by the time your kids are ready for college, if invested appropriately.

Your first step is to establish an overall financial strategy for your family, and the Financial Advisors at CommunityAmerica can walk you through the process. Call to set up a time to meet with one of our experienced financial advisors. We'll help review your family's budget and devise a plan that will put you on track toward your goals, including college savings, retirement and maybe even that boat you've been dreaming about. The Financial Advisors at CommunityAmerica will also help you create and maintain a 529 savings plan or Coverdell account, if you don't already have one.

Do take some time to look at the Upromise program, as it will help funnel some extra dollars into your college savings fund. To learn more, visit www.Upromise.com or stop by CommunityAmerica. Our professionals are ready with the financial guidance you need, in plain English. We'll take the mystery out of your investment options, replacing it with practical advice that puts you on an easier path –including the one that looks like Mount Everest.

How One Day's Savings Can Add Up

Pick up a hammer or pick up the phone? Once you have a general idea of the scale of your project, you need to decide how to get the job done. Should you do it yourself or hire a professional? If you have the skill set, the time and the tools, building your own deck can save you up to 60 percent. Just realize you'll have to invest a lot more than money to do the job right. "Most homeowners don't possess the ability to design and build," Berry said. "I don't think it pays. I really don't."

There are other moves that can save you money and still deliver the peace of mind that comes with working with a contractor. Buying the materials yourself to avoid any markup before you hire professionals lowers your costs. You also can hire an expert to build the always difficult frame, while you can plan to do the grunt work. "Homeowners can do that and save a little," said Berry, "but be aware that your involvement may not allow some companies to warranty the work."

Make it work and make it fit.
When designing your deck, remember one simple rule: Great decks are a natural extension of your home. The purpose should be well defined. Will you use the new space for entertaining or as a personal escape? The right answer will affect the size and the design. Access should be easy. How high up will the deck be? A deck that is 18 inches or higher may require a railing, and national code requires that no larger than a 4-inch' ball can pass through any part of the railing structure. Keep in mind this project involves more than rules and regulations. There is an opportunity for some fun, too, where you can include those special touches. "You can add accent lighting, a built-in cooking center. You even can incorporate a fire pit feature. A well-built deck should feel like an extension of the home," Berry said – and an extension of your way of life.

Finishing touches.
Decks can be as different as the houses they complement and the people who use them. So when you spend your money, think about the enjoyment you'll get out of the improvement and not just the dollars and cents. A great deck costs, but if done right, it's truly worth it. Make sure you know what you'll be putting into and getting out of the experience. "People are not really building new homes," said Berry. "But people want to fix up their current homes. A new deck will add value. But it also adds a lot of lifestyle value. It adds hours and hours of enjoyment."

Landscape Renderings Inc., - Backyardcraftsman.com