It’s never too early to invest. A 529 Savings Plan, prudent financial direction, and steady contributions are paramount to a successful college fund. Due to the intricacies of the financial instrument, an advisor is recommended to guide contributors throughout the process. In this installment of CenterStage, Cyrus Dhatigara – an investment advisor representative – has presented new contributors with his advice on 529 Savings Plans and how they can be beneficial for costly tuition fees.
How are they beneficial?
The 529 Savings Plan is a great way to save money for college. First, there are comparatively high limits on the amounts that parents or grandparents can contribute. Second, these plans are tax free: unlike with a tax-deferred 401(k), funds are exempt from taxation once they are eventually withdrawn. Third, mutual fund companies that are affiliated with state Tuition Trust Authorities are able to offer professional management leveraging a diverse array of funds. Fourth, 529 Savings Plans allow contributors to change the focus of their investments, typically starting with an aggressive strategy during a child’s younger years and moving towards a more conservative approach when he or she gets older.
How much to start?
Parents would naturally like to know how they can foster such an investment. Most have the basic idea of what a 529 Savings Plan is, but not much more. Seeking sound financial advice should fill any gaps in proficiency. Also, there’s no excuse to wait – it takes a mere $25 per month to initiate a plan. Further, 529s can make use of automated checking account withdrawals to enable healthy growth. This is a flexible product, though annual contributions will likely need to increase on that basis. The maximum limit per child is around $300,000; parents can contribute whatever they want and supplement the fund via one-off investments from grandparents.
What do they cover?
Anything that’s necessary for class is covered: books, tuition, fees, and computers or iPads, among other things. In fact, a 529 Savings Plan even covers grad school. Since the investments are earmarked for higher education, money is transferred directly from the mutual fund to the university without any contributor intervention. As a result, parents shouldn’t be concerned about quarterly or semester requirements, and there isn’t room for IRS violations since their only further interaction is taking a receipt.
How can Saxon help?
Cyrus crafts strategic savings plans around children to help fund college tuition, while providing the tools for protection and investment. His largest passion project is an extension of the daily work he does. He revels in contributing financial education to all ages. Saxon’s goal is simple, to mold this program to fit contributors’ individual needs, right from the beginning. We know college savings plans are not one-size-fits-all. Whether you are looking to save for tuition, room and board fees, books, supplies or required computer equipment and technology, Saxon can help.
Please contact Cyrus Dhatigara with any questions you may have on 529 Savings Plans. You can reach him at 513.236.9334 or send him an email at cdhatigara@gosaxon.com.