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Saving For College Blog

When it comes to 529 plans, parents just don't understand
by Kathryn FlynnA study from Fidelity shows more parents are saving for college than ever before, but they are still confused about how 529 savings plans work. By missing out on these key benefits, including federal (and sometimes state) tax savings, and favorable financial aid treatment, they could be leaving money on the table.
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4 times millennial parents should consider a 529 plan
Should all young parents have 529 savings plan? Maybe not, but it might make sense if you’re in grad school, your state offers a tax deduction, you want to give a financial gift or you’re already on track for retirement.
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Expert tips on managing money before, during and after college
Personal finance expert Sam Renick interviews Christine Benz, director of personal finance at Morningstar. Ms. Benz offers advice for parents and students on the best ways to manage money before, during and after college. She discusses balancing financial goals, college return on investment and saving for college with a 529 plan.
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Don't save for retirement: When to ignore traditional college savings advice
As college costs continue to rise, it might be smart to divert some of your retirement savings dollars into a college savings plan. Without savings, middle-class families have few options besides taking out large student loans. Learn how you can put away money for college and without compromising your retirement.
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8 steps to start living your ideal financial life in 2018
Financial wellness starts by developing a healthy relationship with money and personal finance. These 8 steps will help you get your finances on track for 2018.
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Looking for more info on any of these topics?
- 529 plans
- Cost of college
- Coverdell ESA
- Financial Aid
- Grandparents
- Qualified expenses
- Scholarships
- Tax benefits
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Top 529 College Savings Plans
One-year rankings are based on a plan's average investment returns over the last 12 months.
State | Plan Name | |
---|---|---|
1 | New Jersey | NJBEST 529 College Savings Plan |
2 | Utah | my529 |
3 | Kansas | Schwab 529 College Savings Plan |
Three-year rankings are based on a plan's average annual investment returns over the last three years.
State | Plan Name | |
---|---|---|
1 | South Dakota | CollegeAccess 529 (Direct-sold) |
2 | Wisconsin | Edvest |
3 | West Virginia | SMART529 WV Direct College Savings Plan |
Five-year rankings are based on a plan's average annual investment returns over the last five years
State | Plan Name | |
---|---|---|
1 | West Virginia | SMART529 WV Direct College Savings Plan |
2 | Indiana | CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan |
3 | District of Columbia | DC College Savings Plan |
10-year rankings are based on a plan's average annual investment returns over the last ten years.
State | Plan Name | |
---|---|---|
1 | West Virginia | SMART529 WV Direct College Savings Plan |
2 | South Carolina | Future Scholar 529 College Savings Plan (Direct-sold) |
3 | Alaska | T. Rowe Price College Savings Plan |