06/03/2026
College savings can feel tricky when you’re planning for a future your child may not follow exactly. Here are a few ways families can build in more flexibility:
-Keep 529s in context: They can work well for college and some qualified education paths, but may be less flexible if your child takes a gap year, starts a business, or chooses another route.
-Consider a backup account: Roth IRAs may let you withdraw contributions if needed, while keeping the money available for retirement if plans change.
-Don’t overlook free money: Merit scholarships, AP classes, and dual enrollment can help reduce future costs before the first tuition bill arrives.
See why a flexible college savings strategy may matter as much as the amount you save: https://bit.ly/4uyZScQ
As tuition costs soar, money pros suggest some key backup plans if a child decides to skip higher education