What is a LiLA?
Helping to Build a More Competitive Workforce
Lifelong Learning Accounts (LiLAs) are employer-matched, portable accounts that workers use to finance their education and training. LiLAs allow for co-investment in worker education and training by the workers themselves, their employers and even third parties. For example, a third party contribution could be tax credits for employee and employer account contributions or special matching funds for lower-income or other target populations.
The LiLA Model
As developed by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), the LiLA model has the following features:
- Universal Eligibility. Every worker is eligible for an account.
- Broad Use of Funds. Qualifying expenses include tuition, fees, supplies, materials and books.
- Portability. Contributions stay with the individual employee, regardless of the person’s current employer or employment status.
- Voluntary Participation. Individual employees and employers have the option of participating.
- Matched Funding. LiLA contributions are matched by employers and third parties.
- Informed Choice. Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) are developed by employees in consultation with a career and education advisor. Employees choose education and training that meets the career and educational goals that are outlined in their ILPs.