{"id":737,"date":"2026-10-05T05:16:26","date_gmt":"2026-10-05T05:16:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ctdtax.com\/?page_id=737"},"modified":"2026-10-05T05:16:26","modified_gmt":"2026-10-05T05:16:26","slug":"tax-insights-choosing-a-529-plan","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ctdtax.com\/tax-insights-choosing-a-529-plan\/","title":{"rendered":"Tax Insights | Choosing a 529 Plan"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"brz brz-root__container brz-reset-all brz-root__container-page\" >\n<section id=\"sgTpxZdtPf4t_sgTpxZdtPf4t\" class=\"brz-section brz-section__header brz-section__header-type--static brz-css-d-sectionheader brz-css-extofa\">\n<div class=\"brz-section__menu-item brz-css-d-sectionheaderitem brz-css-1bauxpf\" data-brz-custom-id=\"cvkSHtq09R7J\">\n<div class=\"brz-bg\">\n<div class=\"brz-bg-color\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brz-container brz-css-d-sectionheaderitem-container brz-css-1b46j8b\">\n<div class=\"brz-row__container brz-css-d-row-row 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href=\"https:\/\/ctdtax.com\/?page_id=236\"><span class=\"brz-span\">Tax Insights<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li data-menu-item-id=\"e0fb55951f4a5121611b2b95ea415a35\" class=\"brz-menu__item menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page\"><a class=\"brz-a\" target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/ctdtax.com\/?page_id=54\"><span class=\"brz-span\">Pricing<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li data-menu-item-id=\"b2d717b492d1a7d40cb6a14773925447\" class=\"brz-menu__item menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page\"><a class=\"brz-a\" target=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/ctdtax.com\/?page_id=68\"><span class=\"brz-span\">Contact<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brz-columns brz-css-d-column-column brz-css-bzfga5\" data-brz-custom-id=\"vduJLKrSjlUp\">\n<div class=\"brz-column__items brz-css-d-column-bg brz-css-u0bomh\">\n<div class=\"brz-wrapper-clone brz-flex-xs-wrap brz-css-d-cloneable brz-css-1yxgy7l\" data-brz-custom-id=\"eCv9AHYZaNXl\"><a class=\"brz-a brz-btn brz-css-d-button brz-css-1q994pf brz-css-d-button-bg brz-css-a94gvm\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" data-brz-link-type=\"page\" data-brz-custom-id=\"t5Hxbhs1vMdh\"><span data-brz-translate-text=\"1\" class=\"brz-span brz-text__editor\">CLIENT PORTAL<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section id=\"mx7PoEB0NV5r_mx7PoEB0NV5r\" class=\"brz-section brz-css-d-section brz-css-abz1t0\">\n<div class=\"brz-section__content brz-section--boxed brz-css-d-sectionitem-bg brz-css-csmgfl\" data-brz-custom-id=\"fdvCGjy2x4pc\">\n<div class=\"brz-bg\">\n<div class=\"brz-bg-color\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brz-container brz-css-d-sectionitem-container brz-css-147w60z\">\n<div class=\"brz-row__container brz-css-d-row-row brz-css-1ap41jn\" data-brz-custom-id=\"jE808HJlmUWl\">\n<div class=\"brz-row brz-css-d-row-container brz-css-r-row-container brz-css-14iah13\">\n<div class=\"brz-columns brz-css-d-column-column brz-css-1jxgfll\" data-brz-custom-id=\"cI4gTs1gd9Ki\">\n<div class=\"brz-column__items brz-css-d-column-bg brz-css-v5hu47\">\n<div id=\"\" class=\"brz-css-d-wrapper brz-css-r-wrapper brz-css-1enzjyf brz-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"brz-spacer brz-css-d-spacer brz-css-19z8vwu\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"\" class=\"brz-css-d-wrapper brz-css-1jiow75 brz-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"brz-rich-text brz-rich-text__custom brz-css-d-richtext brz-css-f84fk0\" data-brz-custom-id=\"arKZpJEMqQUe\">\n<div data-brz-translate-text=\"1\">\n<p class=\"brz-tp-lg-empty brz-ff-montserrat brz-ft-google brz-fs-lg-16 brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-500 brz-ls-lg-0 brz-lh-lg-1_8 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-goIB3\" data-uniq-id=\"dpMDt\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-xlFzj\">SUMMARY<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"\" class=\"brz-css-d-wrapper brz-css-1ksl8ro brz-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"brz-rich-text brz-rich-text__custom brz-css-d-richtext brz-css-w1v69x\" data-brz-custom-id=\"qEdfef8seO8Y\">\n<div data-brz-translate-text=\"1\">\n<p class=\"brz-tp-lg-paragraph brz-css-tckKf\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-eNC50\" data-uniq-id=\"pcY9T\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Taxes are personal. Each person faces a different need at different times. Contact us if you have any specific questions or want to learn how we would plan for your today and tomorrow.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brz-wrapper-clone brz-flex-xs-wrap brz-css-d-cloneable brz-css-1s2nzds\" data-brz-custom-id=\"cxhJOCZKuYer\"><a class=\"brz-a brz-btn brz-css-d-button brz-css-2nh1s9 brz-css-d-button-bg brz-css-pcbtbg\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ctdtax.com\/?page_id=68\" data-brz-link-type=\"page\" data-brz-custom-id=\"roHHLpMCVo8N\"><svg class=\"brz-icon-svg align-[initial] brz-css-d-button-icon brz-css-1xhc5ez\"><use href=\"\/wp-content\/plugins\/brizy\/public\/editor-build\/prod\/editor\/icons\/glyph\/tail-right.svg#nc_icon\"><\/use><\/svg><span data-brz-translate-text=\"1\" class=\"brz-span brz-text__editor\">CONTACT US<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"\" class=\"brz-css-d-wrapper brz-css-r-wrapper brz-css-1eir9 brz-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"brz-spacer brz-css-d-spacer brz-css-yh8em6\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brz-columns brz-css-d-column-column brz-css-ng7lb8\" data-brz-custom-id=\"mSeVohtmOPAO\">\n<div class=\"brz-column__items brz-css-d-column-bg brz-css-1iq4d53\">\n<div id=\"\" class=\"brz-css-d-wrapper brz-css-xc33rr brz-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"brz-rich-text brz-rich-text__custom brz-css-d-richtext brz-css-1as53u2\" data-brz-custom-id=\"plWGVaeGXpHf\">\n<div data-brz-translate-text=\"1\">\n<p data-generated-css=\"brz-css-kneK5\" data-uniq-id=\"pciK1\" class=\"brz-text-lg-center ql-align-center brz-tp-lg-empty brz-ff-cardo brz-ft-google brz-fs-lg-32 brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-200 brz-ls-lg-m_0_5 brz-lh-lg-1_5 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-u6QfK\"><strong class=\"brz-bold-true\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">5 Critical Mistakes People Make<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-generated-css=\"brz-css-eSatK\" data-uniq-id=\"qyDJi\" class=\"brz-text-lg-center ql-align-center brz-tp-lg-empty brz-ff-cardo brz-ft-google brz-fs-lg-32 brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-200 brz-ls-lg-m_0_5 brz-lh-lg-1_5 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-wb1aI\"><strong class=\"brz-bold-true\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">When Choosing a 529 Plan<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-generated-css=\"brz-css-yhKiQ\" data-uniq-id=\"u0g_S\" class=\"brz-text-lg-center ql-align-center brz-tp-lg-empty brz-ff-cardo brz-ft-google brz-fs-lg-32 brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-200 brz-ls-lg-m_0_5 brz-lh-lg-1_5 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-khrnH\"><strong class=\"brz-bold-true\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">(And How to Avoid Them)<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"\" class=\"brz-css-d-wrapper brz-css-151ufez brz-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"brz-rich-text brz-rich-text__custom brz-css-d-richtext brz-css-16eraz3\" data-brz-custom-id=\"lSn7UI7Sx2_Y\">\n<div data-brz-translate-text=\"1\">\n<p class=\"brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-lh-lg-1_5 brz-ls-lg-0 brz-fw-lg-400 brz-fss-lg-px brz-fs-lg-16 brz-ft-google brz-ff-noto_serif brz-tp-lg-empty brz-css-hi3GJ\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-mD9HV\" data-uniq-id=\"wuACz\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"\" class=\"brz-css-d-wrapper brz-css-z68eg4 brz-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"brz-rich-text brz-rich-text__custom brz-css-d-richtext brz-css-v3vrm1\" data-brz-custom-id=\"vbWhI3T1SFYP\">\n<div data-brz-translate-text=\"1\">\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-vCEoD\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-yz77A\" data-uniq-id=\"oH9fF\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">If you&#8217;re saving for a child&#8217;s education, you&#8217;ve probably heard about 529 plans. They&#8217;re one of the best tax-advantaged ways to save for college, offering tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals when used for qualified education expenses. Many states even offer tax deductions for contributions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-rQGmq\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-pg127\" data-uniq-id=\"o3I6n\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-c6dp1\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-nl0ru\" data-uniq-id=\"wcHl3\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Sounds simple enough, right?<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-uoL7r\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-mcYKu\" data-uniq-id=\"bFsXM\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-qhMcY\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-leBdA\" data-uniq-id=\"n0elZ\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">But here&#8217;s the thing: not all 529 plans are created equal. And once you&#8217;ve opened an account and started contributing, switching can be complicated. I&#8217;ve seen plenty of parents pick a plan based on a single factor\u2014usually whatever their state offers or what a friend recommended\u2014only to realize years later they left money on the table or locked themselves into subpar investment options.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-nArtp\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-o5FF0\" data-uniq-id=\"wRqus\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-e2F9C\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-euGHu\" data-uniq-id=\"x8YDZ\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">So before you open that account, let&#8217;s talk about the five things most people overlook when choosing a 529 plan.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-dYuI9\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-lPZ2Q\" data-uniq-id=\"uYOEx\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ybKid\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-rOyU4\" data-uniq-id=\"kLmeU\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"brz-tp-lg-heading3 brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-w6dN9\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-rpAGt\" data-uniq-id=\"vSUqk\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">1. They Only Look at Their Own State&#8217;s Plan (And Miss Better Options)<\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-feaNO\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-uNQt0\" data-uniq-id=\"yopsW\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-xvjK8\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-b_Iud\" data-uniq-id=\"up_qq\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">This is the big one. Most people assume they have to use their home state&#8217;s 529 plan. Not true.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-t9_pt\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-xhu_S\" data-uniq-id=\"fDrOs\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-tIZke\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-nlYmq\" data-uniq-id=\"sSnfT\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">You can open a 529 plan from any state, regardless of where you live. The money can be used at colleges anywhere in the country. So why does everyone default to their state plan?<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-cUPJF\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-uXFu6\" data-uniq-id=\"x3thh\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ax4Zf\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-sDqF7\" data-uniq-id=\"rvEgH\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Usually, it&#8217;s because they heard about a state tax deduction. And yes, many states offer tax breaks for contributing to their own 529 plan. If you live in New York and contribute $10,000 to New York&#8217;s 529, you might save $600 on your state taxes. That&#8217;s real money.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-gFvVO\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-kU7Mu\" data-uniq-id=\"r18Y1\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-jn0s3\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-jTQc1\" data-uniq-id=\"lnyOT\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">But here&#8217;s what people miss:<\/span><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"> not all states offer this deduction, and in states that don&#8217;t, you&#8217;re free to shop around without penalty.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-uormq\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-wXMwj\" data-uniq-id=\"kL8N_\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-svgpc\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-tEYb6\" data-uniq-id=\"rXmAz\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">If you live in California, Texas, or another state without a state income tax deduction for 529 contributions, you have zero financial reason to stick with your state&#8217;s plan. You should absolutely compare plans from other states.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-eSdE7\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-wV8MJ\" data-uniq-id=\"rCP9V\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ozNlf\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-qDnHc\" data-uniq-id=\"uGE6C\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Even if your state does offer a tax break, run the numbers. A small state tax deduction today might not be worth decades of higher fees or limited investment options. States like Utah, Nevada, and Illinois consistently rank among the best 529 plans nationwide because of low fees and excellent investment choices\u2014even for out-of-state residents.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-sffSN\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-dRSN5\" data-uniq-id=\"jBUxg\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-fZND5\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-iome9\" data-uniq-id=\"yw41y\"><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Bottom line:<\/strong><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"> Don&#8217;t assume your state&#8217;s plan is your only or best option. Compare at least three plans before deciding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-mP0TD\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-tFzyz\" data-uniq-id=\"rh7Hv\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-nDgUF\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-qtZxE\" data-uniq-id=\"sUFfx\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"brz-tp-lg-heading3 brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-aFEFS\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-h_mRN\" data-uniq-id=\"yptB_\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">2. They Ignore Fees (Which Quietly Erode Your Savings)<\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-bxNuu\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-prkzL\" data-uniq-id=\"nJVRK\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-kBcYO\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-cFC5Q\" data-uniq-id=\"mBRxH\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Here&#8217;s a sobering truth: a 1% difference in annual fees can cost you tens of thousands of dollars over 18 years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-mZl8w\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-mQA41\" data-uniq-id=\"q__S6\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Let&#8217;s say you contribute $300 per month for 18 years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-eU4G2\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-hZpxk\" data-uniq-id=\"uuBk4\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-pnTX0\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-uiRbl\" data-uniq-id=\"w6XOK\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">At a 7% annual return:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-t8awf\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-kO62H\" data-uniq-id=\"lRNwm\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">With a 0.15% expense ratio, you&#8217;d end up with about $122,000<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-hg0O4\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-kSYnb\" data-uniq-id=\"q_QWn\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">With a 1.00% expense ratio, you&#8217;d end up with about $108,000<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-sNXdy\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-qtbei\" data-uniq-id=\"bhvM9\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-cw5cS\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-nZUcf\" data-uniq-id=\"bbQiw\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">That&#8217;s $14,000 lost to fees. On the same contributions. Same investment strategy. The only difference is the fee structure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-z7EU7\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-nlBLq\" data-uniq-id=\"igLpE\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-uLb_G\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-rfVXd\" data-uniq-id=\"o79bI\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">529 plans have two types of fees to watch:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-hmaiw\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-a13yy\" data-uniq-id=\"ei7Ru\"><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Program management fees: <\/strong><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Charged by the state or plan administrator<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-oanTH\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-n8XRw\" data-uniq-id=\"tPqKo\"><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Underlying investment fees:<\/strong><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"> The expense ratios of the mutual funds or ETFs in your portfolio<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-dSkK2\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-urqVd\" data-uniq-id=\"yD8sV\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-x6Ugc\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-dpnlN\" data-uniq-id=\"atCtJ\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Some plans stack these fees aggressively. Others keep total costs under 0.20% annually. When you&#8217;re investing for nearly two decades, these differences compound dramatically.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-kVu80\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-tMQom\" data-uniq-id=\"u35Qa\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-fpD0J\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-fgjCY\" data-uniq-id=\"bEiZ4\"><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">What to do:<\/strong><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"> Look for plans with total annual asset-based fees under 0.50%, and ideally under 0.25%. Every major plan discloses this in their plan documents\u2014don&#8217;t skip reading them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-exaRW\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-x3aZq\" data-uniq-id=\"e2y4b\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-jL4f0\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-qZg53\" data-uniq-id=\"j2klT\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"brz-tp-lg-heading3 brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-yGnDZ\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-e7ETZ\" data-uniq-id=\"hvMZH\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">3. They Don&#8217;t Consider Investment Options and Flexibility<\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-lUYW7\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-bXnmP\" data-uniq-id=\"pDnPn\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-gCdsl\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-lQFlz\" data-uniq-id=\"r2fLK\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-xCTsP\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-fClaf\" data-uniq-id=\"p_Qxv\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Not all 529 plans offer the same investment choices, and this matters more than you might think.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-pftzB\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-zxCLf\" data-uniq-id=\"mwy5r\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-v2YN3\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-nQtR0\" data-uniq-id=\"rXWfR\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Some plans offer age-based portfolios that automatically shift from stocks to bonds as your child approaches college age\u2014a sensible default for most families. But the quality of these portfolios varies wildly. Some are aggressively managed with high fees. Others use low-cost index funds.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-qOaP_\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-eJnjR\" data-uniq-id=\"yH7Y7\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-vEomp\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-wTW3O\" data-uniq-id=\"muAcr\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Other plans offer static portfolio options where you choose your own allocation and manage it yourself. This gives you more control but requires more attention.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ehQTY\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-bW2u5\" data-uniq-id=\"woc7g\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-h4GIr\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-k3Fn5\" data-uniq-id=\"z67gu\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Here&#8217;s what people often miss: <\/span><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">some plans severely limit your investment options. <\/strong><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">You might be stuck with only three or four portfolios to choose from, none of which align with your risk tolerance or timeline. Meanwhile, top-tier plans offer 10-15+ options, including portfolios from Vanguard, Fidelity, or Dimensional Fund Advisors.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-apIZD\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-xbU6w\" data-uniq-id=\"uMyWj\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-zyvsW\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-bXtNg\" data-uniq-id=\"jB0aE\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Also important: How often can you change your investment allocation? The IRS allows you to change your 529 investment strategy twice per calendar year, but some plans make this process more cumbersome than others.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-hgVcw\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-jcSP_\" data-uniq-id=\"gIUgL\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-mLIaZ\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-hZIQJ\" data-uniq-id=\"xNuih\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">If your child is 10+ years from college, you want aggressive growth options. If they&#8217;re three years out, you need conservative options that protect your principal. Make sure your plan offers both.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-nOE59\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-dqPBq\" data-uniq-id=\"rxwbF\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-aB8UH\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-tNQGa\" data-uniq-id=\"cn1TF\"><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">What to look for: <\/strong><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Age-based portfolios with low fees, multiple risk level options, and quality underlying funds (index funds from Vanguard, Schwab, or Fidelity are generally excellent).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-u7bWa\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-cpU7_\" data-uniq-id=\"nhF2J\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-f8xbc\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-v1NsD\" data-uniq-id=\"waWSQ\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"brz-tp-lg-heading3 brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-vty22\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-aYKbR\" data-uniq-id=\"upUWk\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">4. They Overlook the Impact of Financial Aid<\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-vKiRH\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-ikbpM\" data-uniq-id=\"yt1_Z\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-yV6bB\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-lIlRg\" data-uniq-id=\"tFEtY\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Here&#8217;s an uncomfortable reality: 529 plans are considered parental assets for financial aid purposes, which means they can reduce your child&#8217;s aid eligibility.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-j_OHS\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-xRlH8\" data-uniq-id=\"tSoyb\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-bsySa\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-pMGWb\" data-uniq-id=\"xNLMh\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">However, the impact is relatively modest. Parental assets are assessed at a maximum rate of 5.64% for financial aid calculations, compared to 20% for student-owned assets. So a 529 with $50,000 might reduce aid eligibility by about $2,800 annually\u2014less than the tax-free growth and tax benefits you&#8217;ve gained over the years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-xOed4\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-o4oeL\" data-uniq-id=\"cT2HY\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-w8qfo\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-qyuyP\" data-uniq-id=\"imT8B\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">What people really miss, though, is whose name the account is in. A 529 owned by a parent is treated more favorably than one owned by a grandparent. In fact, under current rules, grandparent-owned 529s aren&#8217;t reported as an asset on the FAFSA at all\u2014but distributions from them count as untaxed student income, which can significantly reduce aid.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-c36Fb\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-pWJ1Z\" data-uniq-id=\"c6HVd\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ckVFS\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-lmVoM\" data-uniq-id=\"u4lEL\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">If grandparents want to help, it&#8217;s often smarter for them to contribute to a parent-owned 529 rather than opening their own account. Or, wait to take distributions until after the student files their final FAFSA (typically junior year of college).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ks1DD\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-lhMbL\" data-uniq-id=\"w3KiH\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-t_ACE\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-hyilJ\" data-uniq-id=\"fHMa3\"><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">The takeaway: <\/strong><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Understand the financial aid implications, especially if you expect to qualify for need-based aid. In most cases, a parent-owned 529 is the most favorable structure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-dhXnY\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-kMm0M\" data-uniq-id=\"i2U3I\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-fliNJ\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-vjh40\" data-uniq-id=\"nheV9\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"brz-tp-lg-heading3 brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-bIJQH\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-aD6JC\" data-uniq-id=\"bO85R\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">5. They Forget to Plan for &#8220;What If&#8221; Scenarios<\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ziOVl\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-iKpju\" data-uniq-id=\"tcx3E\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ftsBU\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-xAkgz\" data-uniq-id=\"sYJjn\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Life doesn&#8217;t always go according to plan. Your child might get a full scholarship. They might not go to college at all. They might go to a cheaper school than you anticipated. What happens to all that money you saved?<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ve2LE\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-wwQB_\" data-uniq-id=\"nzmnt\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-cK2zb\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-w0fUH\" data-uniq-id=\"w35nu\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">This is where people panic unnecessarily, because they&#8217;ve heard that non-qualified 529 withdrawals trigger taxes and a 10% penalty on earnings. And that&#8217;s true\u2014but there are more exceptions and workarounds than most people realize.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-fU1li\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-hw2Ac\" data-uniq-id=\"zkESr\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-kTxF0\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-uitUe\" data-uniq-id=\"jHqZb\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">First, 529 funds can now be used for:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-t7CJ_\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-mrS8l\" data-uniq-id=\"fOd2V\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">K-12 private school tuition (up to $10,000 per year)<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-tAF7x\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-bJ2DM\" data-uniq-id=\"xBEkJ\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Apprenticeship programs<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-aaef3\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-yzsrs\" data-uniq-id=\"jt765\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Student loan repayment (up to $10,000 lifetime)<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-dS17K\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-kSTlp\" data-uniq-id=\"aXCdw\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Some room and board costs<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-hcTqB\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-i2JtG\" data-uniq-id=\"qoF6I\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Required books and supplies<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-dWgUG\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-d4l5N\" data-uniq-id=\"uGgAl\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-vcVzg\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-xom5n\" data-uniq-id=\"aLUpA\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Second, you can change the beneficiary to another family member\u2014a sibling, cousin, or even yourself if you want to go back to school\u2014without penalties.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ybeEx\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-gojvv\" data-uniq-id=\"tLUhS\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-uTyvr\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-h9MwT\" data-uniq-id=\"mE36a\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Third, if your child gets a scholarship, you can withdraw up to the scholarship amount without the 10% penalty (you&#8217;ll still owe taxes on the earnings portion, but that&#8217;s it).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-o1kWI\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-vv_iP\" data-uniq-id=\"fzHJL\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-oL1NY\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-fQOA7\" data-uniq-id=\"jMvCN\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">And fourth, recent legislation allows up to $35,000 of unused 529 funds to be rolled into a Roth IRA for the beneficiary, subject to certain conditions. This is a game-changer for families worried about overfunding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-tCfmq\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-gIRHO\" data-uniq-id=\"htV_J\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-vb2T1\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-gr_YH\" data-uniq-id=\"gKCaY\"><strong style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">What to remember:<\/strong><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"> 529 plans are more flexible than they used to be. Don&#8217;t let fear of &#8220;what if&#8221; scenarios stop you from saving. Just understand your options if plans change.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-vGrBD\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-dg6Nd\" data-uniq-id=\"wSEZr\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-yPrsk\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-v_9pB\" data-uniq-id=\"yQMXU\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"brz-tp-lg-heading3 brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-yNsLc\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-qQc3a\" data-uniq-id=\"gkcQe\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">The Bottom Line: Do Your Homework Before You Commit<\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-l6Ggr\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-sgORm\" data-uniq-id=\"mpeNc\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-ckaM4\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-ta9ke\" data-uniq-id=\"uUvpy\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Choosing a 529 plan isn&#8217;t a decision you want to make lightly or based solely on convenience. The plan you pick will hold your contributions for years or even decades, and the differences between a mediocre plan and a great one can literally mean tens of thousands of dollars.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-wJe_d\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-hfSHZ\" data-uniq-id=\"qlT8y\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-wpeIP\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-mKA83\" data-uniq-id=\"hNI97\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Take the time to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-yNouE\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-lC_aU\" data-uniq-id=\"hcigV\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Compare your state&#8217;s plan to top-rated out-of-state options<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-jk60P\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-j6dp4\" data-uniq-id=\"to_GD\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Calculate whether your state tax deduction justifies higher fees or limited options<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-pyumG\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-q2f_k\" data-uniq-id=\"fa8z1\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Review fee structures carefully<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-k_xao\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-suNGf\" data-uniq-id=\"qzJUl\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Evaluate investment options and flexibility<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-k5kYY\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-odaaW\" data-uniq-id=\"hsTUg\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Understand financial aid implications<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-tnTLd\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-pt_zP\" data-uniq-id=\"jnsCZ\" style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Know your exit strategies if circumstances change<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-jrRgx\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-m1zkI\" data-uniq-id=\"nfGby\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-wUaUv\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-hSJUU\" data-uniq-id=\"uGZta\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">And if you&#8217;re unsure? Talk to a financial advisor or CPA who can evaluate your specific situation. The hour you spend choosing the right plan could be one of the highest-return &#8220;investments&#8221; you make in your child&#8217;s education.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-bRHaF\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-jQME9\" data-uniq-id=\"q59bU\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"brz-ft-google brz-fss-lg-px brz-fw-lg-400 brz-vfw-lg-400 brz-fwdth-lg-100 brz-fsft-lg-0 brz-css-atXc9\" data-generated-css=\"brz-css-s3m08\" data-uniq-id=\"gobRk\"><span style=\"color: rgb(13, 40, 47);\">Because when it comes to saving for college, picking the right vehicle matters just as much as how much you contribute.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"\" class=\"brz-css-d-wrapper brz-css-r-wrapper brz-css-1bon0vd brz-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"brz-spacer brz-css-d-spacer brz-css-tlao8a\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brz-wrapper-clone brz-flex-xs-wrap 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