One way to plan for your children's college education is through a 529 plan, which is an education savings plan operated by a state or educational institution. The name 529 comes from section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, which created these types of savings plans in 1996. Although your contributions are not deductible on your federal tax return, your investment receives tax-deferred treatment and qualified distributions to pay for the beneficiaries' college costs come out federally tax-free.
The 2017 tax reform package expanded 529 plan benefits to include tax-free withdrawals for private, public or religious elementary, middle and high school tuition up to $10,000.
Non-qualified withdrawals are subject to state income tax and a 10% penalty. College savings plans offered by each state differ significantly in features and benefits. The optimal plan for each investor depends on his or her individual objectives and circumstances. In comparing plans, each investor should consider each plan's investment options, fees and state tax implications.
State tax deductions vary by the state of issuance. Plan assets are professionally managed either by the state Treasurer's office or by an outside investment company hired as the program manager. But you have some control over how your investment is managed. You may be able to change to a different option in a 529 savings program every year, although plan restrictions may apply. Everyone is eligible to take advantage of a 529 plan and the amounts you can put in are substantial. And the ownership structure of the 529 could positively impact financial aid eligibility.
Let us help you decide which 529 plan is right for you. Give us a call today.
Ken Corlett
(619) 261-2248
Financial Advisor in La Mesa CA
Wealth Management