When my daughter was in college, she was inundated with credit card offers: in the mail, on campus, and via telephone. During freshman orientation, they signed her up for a local checking account and accompanying credit card on the spot. I have to say, at the time it was convenient and easy. But looking back, that one credit card led to debt and made it easier to sign up for more. After graduating from college, she had accumulated some hefty credit card balances due to the convenience of using those cards.

University Parent Media, seeing the need for smart spending alternatives to credit cards, has partnered with StorValue and created a program for college students that offers two amazing benefits: controlled spending and cash back rewards. Campus Dough, a low-fee, reward-filled prepaid debit card, provides unmatched benefits for students and their families. Campus Dough gives collegians shopping, restaurant discounts and a new way to manage money through virtual banking and online tools. Parents can use Campus Dough to help ensure security and responsible spending.

Here are some appealing benefits for both parents and college-bound teens:

1. They can arrange for direct deposit to their card from their jobs on campus; eliminating check cashing fees and wait time.
2. They can personalize their card with their favorite image or photo.
3. Campus Dough allows them to manage their account, transfer funds and pay bills on their smart phones.
4. They earn a percentage of each transaction with cash back rewards; and if they follow Campus Dough on Facebook or Twitter, they can take advantage of special offers.
5. They may find they no longer need a checking account after using this card, eliminating high bank fees.
6. Their colleges also earn rewards.
7. Parents can transfer funds to the card by linking to their checking accounts.
8. This is an effective method to control spending.

According to Campus Dough, “the more dough you spend, the more dough you earn, AND the more dough you SAVE!”

Take some time today to visit their website and watch the video presentations on how the card works.  Once you do, I’m sure you’ll see the benefits of this card and sign up for one today. It’s the smart way to help your college-bound teen learn about budgeting, spending and the benefits of graduating with good credit and minimal debt.