05/29/2026
Education planning works best when it’s thoughtful, not rushed or one‑dimensional. A 529 plan isn’t just a “college account” anymore, and the details matter more than most people realize.
A few things families should keep in mind:
👉529 plans can now be used for more than four‑year college, including trade and vocational programs, licensing exams, certain K–12 expenses, and in some cases Roth IRA rollovers if education costs don’t use all the funds
👉The biggest planning questions aren’t whether to save, but how much to save, who should own the account, and how it fits with taxes, financial aid, and retirement goals
👉For high earners and grandparents, 529 funding decisions can affect cash flow, gifting strategy, and long‑term flexibility—sometimes in ways that aren’t obvious up front
Used well, a 529 plan isn’t about predicting a child’s future. It’s about preserving options while keeping your own financial independence on track. 529 Day is a good reminder to step back and make sure your education‑funding strategy still fits the rest of your plan.
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