Tuition costs have risen dramatically over the last 30 years, and parents need all the help they can get in financing a college education. There are many of options available, including 529 plans and Coverdell accounts, so it’s important to consider carefully the appropriate way to help pay for higher education.
What is a 529 Plan?
A 529 plan is an education savings plan designed to help families set aside funds for future college costs. It is named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Tax advantages of a 529 plan
Any earnings generated grow federal income tax free (and may also be eligible for state tax deductions) as long as withdrawals are used for qualified higher education expenses. Section 529 plans are established by various states and offered to residents of all states. Depending on the laws of the customer’s home state, favorable tax treatment may be limited to investments made in a Section 529 plan offered by the customer’s home state.
Managed by professionals
College savings plans offered by each state differ significantly in features and benefits. They are state-sponsored programs, usually managed by a financial services firm. The ongoing investment of the account is handled by the Plan. Plan assets are professionally managed either by the state treasurer’s office or by an outside investment company hired as the program manager.
Contribution limits
There are no age or income restrictions for contributions or beneficiaries. As much as $15,000 ($30,000 for married couples) can be contributed each year without gift-tax consequences as of 2019. A contribution of $15,000 a year or less qualifies for the annual federal gift tax exclusion. And under special rules unique to 529 plans, you can gift a lump sum of up to $75,000 ($150,000 for joint gifts) and avoid federal gift tax, provided you make an election to spread the gift evenly over five years.
Create a plan for each child
Every 529 plan requires a named custodian – typically a parent or grandparent – and a named beneficiary, the child. The account owner (i.e. the custodian) controls the account, including investment decisions and the distribution of assets. The account owner maintains ownership of the account until the money is withdrawn.
Each 529 plan account has one designated beneficiary. A designated beneficiary is usually the student or future student for whom the plan is intended to provide benefits. The beneficiary is generally not limited to attending schools in the state that sponsors their 529 plan.
Consider the impact on financial aid
Whenever possible, it’s beneficial to have a 529 plan owned by a parent as it can impact a student’s financial aid eligibility. If a parent is named custodian of the plan, it will be assessed at a maximum rate of 5.64 percent when determining the family’s expected contribution (EFC*) vs. a rate of 20 percent if owned by the student.
Coverdell Educational Savings Accounts
Like a 529 plan, contributions made to Coverdell accounts grow tax deferred. The annual contribution limit per designated beneficiary in a Coverdell account is $2,000. Unlike a 529 plan, money saved in a Coverdell account can be used to pay expenses for both secondary and collegiate costs.
Custodial Accounts
Custodial accounts can be set up through both the Uniform Gift to Minors Act (UGMA) and Uniform Transfer to Minors (UTMA). They allow you to make a gift of cash or securities to minors. These accounts may offer tax advantages, investment options and provide you with flexibility—since the money can be used for more than just education. However, there are certain restrictions to carefully consider before establishing and using these accounts.
Education Tax Benefits
Education Tax Benefits which are a form of financial aid that students and their parents can take advantage of (if eligible) include: American Opportunity Tax Credit, Lifetime Learning Tax Credit, Student Loan Interest Deduction, and Employer Tuition Assistance.
Investments and insurance
In addition to 529 plans, Coverdale and Custodial Accounts, and Education Tax Benefits, you may want to consider using funds from existing investments or insurance contracts.
Make the right choice for your family
The good news is that there are many options to choose from. But with so many choices, picking the right one for your family may require some help. At Krietzberg Wealth Management, our financial advisors can assess your situation and work with you to determine which plan is best-suited for your child’s—and family’s—needs.
The content of this material was provided to you by Lincoln Financial Advisors for its representatives and their clients. This article may be picked up by other publications under financial professional’s bylines.
Curtis Krietzberg and David Krietzberg are registered representatives of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp.Securities and investment advisory services offered through Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a broker/dealer (member SIPC) and registered investment advisor. Insurance offered through Lincoln affiliates and other fine companies. It is not our position to offer legal or tax advice. Krietzberg Wealth Management is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors.
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