Benefits of a 529 (and how we are using ours)

A 529 plan is a type of investment account that is specifically designed to help save for college expenses. These plans offer several key benefits that make them a popular choice for families who are looking to save for higher education.

One of the biggest benefits of a 529 plan is the tax advantages they offer. Contributions to a 529 plan are made with after-tax dollars, but the earnings on those contributions grow tax-free as long as they are used for qualified education expenses. This means that the money you save in a 529 plan can grow faster than it would in a regular investment account, since you won't have to pay taxes on the interest and dividends earned.

Another advantage of a 529 plan is the flexibility they offer. These plans can be used at a wide range of colleges and universities, and the funds can be used for a variety of expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and room and board. This means that you can save for your child's education in a way that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.

529 plans also offer the potential for professional investment management. Many plans are managed by financial experts who can help you choose investments that are appropriate for your risk tolerance and time horizon. This can help you make the most of your savings and maximize the potential for growth.

In addition to these benefits, 529 plans also offer the option for gift tax exclusions and estate tax benefits. This means that you can contribute to a child's 529 plan without incurring gift taxes, and the funds in the account can be passed on to the next generation without being subject to estate taxes.

Overall, 529 plans offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive option for families who are saving for college. With the tax advantages, flexibility, potential for professional investment management, and gift and estate tax benefits, a 529 plan can help you save for your child's education in a way that is smart, efficient, and effective.

By now you can probably see why we chose a 529 as a vehicle for savings for our little man. There is a lot of flexibility in 529s and family and friends can make contributions for birthdays or holidays. For us, this offered tax advantages and the flexibility we wanted to balance our goals no matter what the future has in store.