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529 Plans and Financial Aid: A Critical Analysis of Current Trends
Author: Dr. Eleanor Vance, Ph.D. in Economics, Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing in higher education finance.
Publisher: The National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) – a highly reputable organization providing research and resources for higher education financial management.
Editor: Ms. Sarah Chen, Editor-in-Chief of NACUBO’s journal, Current Issues in Higher Education Finance, with 15 years of experience in educational publishing and finance.
Keywords: 529 plans and financial aid, college savings, financial aid eligibility, higher education funding, tax benefits, asset protection, education tax credits, financial planning for college
Abstract: This analysis examines the complex interplay between 529 plans and financial aid, exploring their evolving impact on college affordability and family financial planning. We delve into the current trends, scrutinize the potential benefits and drawbacks, and offer insights for families navigating the intricate landscape of higher education funding. The article critically assesses the effectiveness of 529 plans as a college savings vehicle in the context of financial aid formulas and proposes strategies for maximizing their utilization while mitigating potential negative impacts on eligibility for need-based aid.
1. Introduction: Navigating the Labyrinth of 529 Plans and Financial Aid
The rising cost of higher education necessitates strategic financial planning. 529 plans, tax-advantaged savings plans designed specifically for education expenses, are frequently promoted as a crucial component of this planning. However, the relationship between 529 plans and financial aid is often misunderstood, leading to potential pitfalls for families seeking financial assistance for college. This analysis dissects the complexities of this relationship, examining current trends and offering practical advice for maximizing the benefits of 529 plans while minimizing their potential negative impact on financial aid eligibility.
2. How 529 Plans Work and Their Tax Advantages
529 plans operate under Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, offering significant tax advantages. Contributions are typically made after tax, but earnings grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals used for qualified education expenses are tax-free at the federal level. This creates a powerful incentive for families to save for college. State-sponsored plans often offer additional benefits like state tax deductions on contributions. However, understanding the intricacies of these plans, including contribution limits and investment options, is crucial for effective utilization.
3. The Impact of 529 Plans on Financial Aid Eligibility
This is where the complexity arises. While 529 plans offer substantial tax advantages, the assets within them are considered parental assets when determining eligibility for need-based financial aid. The federal government's formula considers a portion of parental assets in its calculation of Expected Family Contribution (EFC), influencing the amount of financial aid a student may receive. Generally, a lower EFC leads to more financial aid. The percentage of assets considered varies depending on the specific formula used by the institution and the family's circumstances, but it's crucial to remember that the presence of a substantial 529 plan balance can negatively impact the family's financial aid package.
4. Current Trends in 529 Plan Utilization and Their Implications
The popularity of 529 plans has grown significantly over the years. However, recent trends suggest a shift in awareness regarding their impact on financial aid eligibility. More families are becoming aware of the potential trade-offs between tax benefits and potential reduction in financial aid. This has led to some families adopting more nuanced savings strategies, diversifying their savings vehicles to balance the need for tax advantages with the potential impact on financial aid awards.
5. Strategies for Maximizing 529 Plan Benefits While Minimizing the Impact on Financial Aid
Several strategies can help families mitigate the negative impact of 529 plans on financial aid eligibility. These strategies include:
Strategic Contribution Timing: Families should consider the timing of their 529 plan contributions carefully. Avoiding large contributions during the financial aid application year can minimize the impact on the EFC calculation.
Diversifying Savings Vehicles: Combining 529 plans with other savings vehicles like Roth IRAs or taxable brokerage accounts can create a diversified savings strategy. The assets in these other accounts are typically treated differently in the financial aid formula than those in a 529 plan.
Understanding the Financial Aid Formula: Families should thoroughly understand the specific financial aid formula used by their target colleges. This allows for a more informed approach to saving and investing.
Seeking Professional Financial Advice: Consulting with a qualified financial advisor experienced in higher education funding can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual circumstances.
6. The Role of Institutional Financial Aid Policies and Practices
It's vital to recognize that institutional policies regarding 529 plans can differ significantly. Some institutions might have more generous aid packages, less affected by the presence of 529 plan assets than others. Therefore, understanding the specific policies of each college a student is applying to is crucial for accurate financial planning.
7. The Future of 529 Plans and Financial Aid: Potential Policy Changes and Their Implications
Ongoing discussions about reforming the financial aid system often touch upon the role of 529 plans. Potential policy changes, such as altering the way parental assets are considered in the EFC calculation, could significantly impact the effectiveness of 529 plans as a college savings tool. Families should stay informed about such developments, as they may necessitate adjustments to their savings strategies.
8. Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to College Savings
529 plans offer significant tax advantages, but their impact on financial aid eligibility demands careful consideration. A balanced approach to college savings, incorporating diversification and a thorough understanding of financial aid formulas, is essential for families striving to fund their children's higher education without compromising access to potential financial assistance. Proactive planning, including seeking professional advice, is crucial for navigating this complex landscape effectively.
FAQs:
1. Are 529 plan assets always considered in financial aid calculations? Yes, but the percentage considered varies depending on the family's income and the specific financial aid formula used.
2. Can I withdraw money from a 529 plan for non-qualified education expenses? Yes, but you'll be subject to income tax on the earnings and a 10% penalty.
3. Can I change the beneficiary of a 529 plan? Yes, you can generally change the beneficiary to another family member.
4. What are the contribution limits for 529 plans? Contribution limits vary by state, but there are typically overall lifetime contribution limits per beneficiary.
5. How do 529 plans compare to other college savings options, like Roth IRAs? Roth IRAs offer tax-free withdrawals in retirement, but their use for education is less straightforward than 529 plans.
6. What is the difference between a state-sponsored 529 plan and a private 529 plan? State-sponsored plans may offer state tax deductions, while private plans may offer a wider range of investment options.
7. How do I find the financial aid formula used by a specific college? Check the college's financial aid website or contact their financial aid office.
8. Should I open a 529 plan even if I don't think I'll need financial aid? Yes, the tax advantages alone make it a worthwhile consideration for many families.
9. What if my financial situation changes significantly after I open a 529 plan? You can adjust your contribution strategy based on your updated financial picture. A financial advisor can assist with this.
Related Articles:
1. "The Impact of Asset Protection Strategies on Financial Aid Eligibility": Explores various asset protection strategies and their effects on financial aid.
2. "Understanding the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) Formula": Provides a detailed explanation of how the EFC is calculated.
3. "Maximizing Tax Advantages Through Strategic College Savings": Discusses various college savings vehicles and their tax implications.
4. "State-Specific 529 Plan Comparisons: A Comprehensive Guide": Provides a state-by-state comparison of 529 plan features and benefits.
5. "Financial Aid Myths and Realities: Separating Fact from Fiction": Debunks common misconceptions surrounding financial aid.
6. "Long-Term Financial Planning for Higher Education: A Holistic Approach": Presents a broader perspective on higher education financing over the long term.
7. "The Role of Scholarships and Grants in College Funding Strategies": Explores the importance of scholarships and grants in reducing college costs.
8. "Navigating the FAFSA and CSS Profile: A Step-by-Step Guide": Offers guidance on completing these crucial financial aid applications.
9. "The Psychology of College Savings: Overcoming Barriers to Effective Planning": Addresses the emotional and psychological aspects of college savings.
| 529 plans and financial aid: Filing the FAFSA Mark Kantrowitz, David Levy, 2014-01-31 Every year, more than 20 million students and parents file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the gateway to federal, state and school financial aid. Families often worry about making costly mistakes, but this step-by-step guide provides expert advice and insights to: · Maximize eligibility for student aid · Avoid common errors · Complete the form quickly, easily and accurately Praise for Filing the FAFSA: I found Filing the FAFSA to be an up-to-the-minute, accessible and readable resource for those with a keen interest in the current federal application for student financial aid. –Nancy Coolidge, Office of the President, University of California Families need a guide that breaks down the application form into logical sections. Filing the FAFSA is an important tool in removing some of the mystery surrounding the financial aid process. –Verna Hazen, Assistant Vice President and Director, Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, Rochester Institute of Technology With the plethora of information on the subject of completing college financial applications, it’s reassuring to find a guide that students, parents and even guidance counselors can look to for useful and accurate information. –Carlos Adrian, Associate Director, Financial Aid Compliance, Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs, Syracuse University As a long-time financial aid professional, I am always looking for helpful tools to assist families in understanding the sometimes overwhelming process of applying for student financial aid for college. Filing the FAFSA is a tool that successfully combines the presentation of detailed information with easy to follow flow charts and summary boxes to guide families through the application process. It is filled with helpful hints and is a valuable resource for families navigating the complicated world of financial aid. –Diane Stemper, Executive Director, Office of Enrollment Services, Student Financial Aid, Ohio State University |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Plan and Finance Your Family's College Dreams: A Parent's Step-By-Step Guide from Pre-K to Senior Year Peter Mazareas, 2016-06-14 Planning and paying for a college education is a daunting task for most parents. It is a stressful and costly process that needs a well-thought-out academic and financial strategy. This guide offers just that! Two of the nation's leading college planning and financing experts provide clear step-by-step guidance on how to successfully save, plan for, apply to, and finance a college education. Age- and grade-appropriate guidance empowers families with children of all ages, with detailed information on preparing, financing, and successfully applying to college. Financing a college education requires a good look at all available options: savings, free money, financial aid, and loans. Finding the right savings vehicle and investments is important. Learn the pros and cons of various savings and investment options, including Bank accounts, 529 Plans, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, and more-so you can begin to develop your plan. Easy-to-understand explanations help parents better understand college loans, including details about federal and private loans, consolidation and refinancing of loans, as well as a discussion on what it means to co-sign a loan. Based on the expert advice presented in this book, parents will be able to create a personalized college admission and financing plan that is unique to their family. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Taming the Tuition Tiger Kathy Kristof, 2003-03-01 Taming the Tuition Tiger gives a detailed description of all the opportunities for funding education afforded through new tax laws and gives strategies for families across all income levels. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: The Best Way to Save for College Joseph F. Hurley, 2008-10 The Best Way to Save for College is still the number one resource on all 529 programs and other college savings strategies (including Coverdell Education Savings Accounts). Read below for a preview of this edition's chapters: Section One Chapter 1: History of 529 Plans Chapter 2: Why You Should be Invested in a 529 Plan Chapter 3: Section 529 Overview Chapter 4: Financial Aid Considerations Chapter 5: Prepaid vs. Savings Chapter 6: What to Look for in a 529 Plan: A Checklist Chapter 7: Income Tax Planning with 529 Plans Chapter 8: Estate Planning with 529 Plans Chapter 9: 529 Plan vs. Coverdell Accounts Chapter 10: 529 Plan vs. Qualified Savings Bonds Chapter 11: 529 Plan vs. Other Investment Alternatives Chapter 12: Managing your 529 Account Section Two consists of a state-by-state comparison of all 529 programs. With more than ninety 529 programs to choose from, this comparison will prove to be a great resource in determining which program is right for you! |
| 529 plans and financial aid: The White Coat Investor James M. Dahle, 2014-01 Written by a practicing emergency physician, The White Coat Investor is a high-yield manual that specifically deals with the financial issues facing medical students, residents, physicians, dentists, and similar high-income professionals. Doctors are highly-educated and extensively trained at making difficult diagnoses and performing life saving procedures. However, they receive little to no training in business, personal finance, investing, insurance, taxes, estate planning, and asset protection. This book fills in the gaps and will teach you to use your high income to escape from your student loans, provide for your family, build wealth, and stop getting ripped off by unscrupulous financial professionals. Straight talk and clear explanations allow the book to be easily digested by a novice to the subject matter yet the book also contains advanced concepts specific to physicians you won't find in other financial books. This book will teach you how to: Graduate from medical school with as little debt as possible Escape from student loans within two to five years of residency graduation Purchase the right types and amounts of insurance Decide when to buy a house and how much to spend on it Learn to invest in a sensible, low-cost and effective manner with or without the assistance of an advisor Avoid investments which are designed to be sold, not bought Select advisors who give great service and advice at a fair price Become a millionaire within five to ten years of residency graduation Use a Backdoor Roth IRA and Stealth IRA to boost your retirement funds and decrease your taxes Protect your hard-won assets from professional and personal lawsuits Avoid estate taxes, avoid probate, and ensure your children and your money go where you want when you die Minimize your tax burden, keeping more of your hard-earned money Decide between an employee job and an independent contractor job Choose between sole proprietorship, Limited Liability Company, S Corporation, and C Corporation Take a look at the first pages of the book by clicking on the Look Inside feature Praise For The White Coat Investor Much of my financial planning practice is helping doctors to correct mistakes that reading this book would have avoided in the first place. - Allan S. Roth, MBA, CPA, CFP(R), Author of How a Second Grader Beats Wall Street Jim Dahle has done a lot of thinking about the peculiar financial problems facing physicians, and you, lucky reader, are about to reap the bounty of both his experience and his research. - William J. Bernstein, MD, Author of The Investor's Manifesto and seven other investing books This book should be in every career counselor's office and delivered with every medical degree. - Rick Van Ness, Author of Common Sense Investing The White Coat Investor provides an expert consult for your finances. I now feel confident I can be a millionaire at 40 without feeling like a jerk. - Joe Jones, DO Jim Dahle has done for physician financial illiteracy what penicillin did for neurosyphilis. - Dennis Bethel, MD An excellent practical personal finance guide for physicians in training and in practice from a non biased source we can actually trust. - Greg E Wilde, M.D Scroll up, click the buy button, and get started today! |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Financial Aid for Higher Education Cooperative Program for Educational Opportunity, United States. Office of Education. Educational Talent Section, 1969 |
| 529 plans and financial aid: The Charles Schwab Guide to Finances After Fifty Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz, Joanne Cuthbertson, 2014-04-01 Here at last are the hard-to-find answers to the dizzying array of financial questions plaguing those who are age fifty and older. The financial world is more complex than ever, and people are struggling to make sense of it all. If you’re like most people moving into the phase of life where protecting—as well as growing-- assets is paramount, you’re faced with a number of financial puzzles. Maybe you’re struggling to get your kids through college without drawing down your life’s savings. Perhaps you sense your nest egg is at risk and want to move into safer investments. Maybe you’re contemplating downsizing to a smaller home, but aren’t sure of the financial implications. Possibly, medical expenses have become a bigger drain than you expected and you need help assessing options. Perhaps you’ll shortly be eligible for social security but want to optimize when and how to take it. Whatever your specific financial issue, one thing is certain—your range of choices is vast. As the financial world becomes increasingly complex, what you need is deeply researched advice from professionals whose credentials are impeccable and who prize clarity and straightforwardness over financial mumbo-jumbo. Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz and the Schwab team have been helping clients tackle their toughest money issues for decades. Through Carrie’s popular “Ask Carrie” columns, her leadership of the Charles Schwab Foundation, and her work across party lines through two White House administrations and with the President’s Advisory Council on Financial Capability, she has become one of America’s most trusted sources for financial advice. Here, Carrie will not only answer all the questions that keep you up at night, she’ll provide answers to many questions you haven’t considered but should. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Faithful Finance Emily G. Stroud, 2018-01-09 Financial advisor Emily G. Stroud knows that money can be one of the great causes of stress in life--but that it doesn't have to be that way. Faithful Finance offers ten life-changing secrets to help you find financial freedom. Many of us feel overwhelmed and ill-equipped to deal with our personal finances. We wonder if we will ever experience financial freedom. We want to make wise decisions and spend money on what matters, but we just don't know how. As a mom, businesswoman, and entrepreneur, Emily has two decades of experience helping people make smart choices about money. Instead of stressing out about finances, you'll discover that money can be a great source of joy, security, and hope. In Faithful Finance, Emily comes alongside you to equip and encourage you to: Develop a savings plan based on your unique goals Make a monthly budget that actually works for you Reduce your overall debt burden Plan for your children's college years Insure your life without fear Leave a legacy through estate planning Encourage you to give generously And most importantly, discover the source of true wealth Presented in a conversational style, Faithful Finance is a practical guide that works in every financial situation, for every income level, at every stage of life. With engaging stories and practical examples, Emily empowers you to make choices that will allow you and your loved ones to enjoy financial freedom for years to come. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Bank On Yourself Pamela Yellen, 2010-03-23 The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and BusinessWeek bestseller Bank On Yourself: The Life-Changing Secret to Growing and Protecting Your Financial Future reveals the secrets to taking back control of your financial future that Wall Street, banks, and credit card companies don’t want you to know. Can you imagine what it would be like to look forward to opening your account statements because they always have good news and never any ugly surprises? More than 100,000 Americans of all ages, incomes, and backgrounds are already using Bank On Yourself to grow a nest-egg they can predict and count on, even when stocks, real estate, and other investments tumble. You’ll meet some of them and hear their stories of how Bank On Yourself has helped them reach a wide variety of short- and longterm personal and financial goals and dreams in this book. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Choose FI Chris Mamula, Brad Barrett, Jonathan Mendonsa, 2019-10 Now available for Pre-Order! A common resolution set at the beginning of a new year is to get my financial house in order. But how can you build a house, let alone pour any kind of foundation, without a blueprint? There are dozens of books and gurus trying to push their advice and tell you how to spend and invest your money. And then, there are three suburban dads just trying to make the world a little bit better. Meet Brad Barrett and Jonathan Mendonsa of the award-winning ChooseFI podcast and Chris Mamula of the popular blog Can I Retire Yet?. They have walked the talk and now want to share their knowledge with you. Together, these three regular guys will show you how they did something extraordinary. They are all financially independent and doing meaningful work that fulfills them. All three left their corporate 9 to 5 jobs and are reaping the benefits of extra time with their families. Mirroring the format of the popular ChooseFI podcast, this book pulls from the collective knowledge of those who have decided to build a lifestyle around their passions instead of allowing their finances to dictate their future. These stories demonstrate universal principles, giving you the opportunity to pick the elements that are the most applicable to your financial situation and choose your own adventure. The book covers a wide range of topics that will help you build a strong financial foundation: Developing a growth mindset Defining your values and aligning them with your spending Cutting years from your estimated retirement date Questioning the status quo on required expenses Cutting travel expenses and putting family vacations within your reach Learning how to earn more and live with abundance Updating the commonly accepted wisdom on college education and the debt associated with it Cutting through the noise on investing to discover strategies that work Showing how to implement investment strategies that enable the lifestyle you desire while controlling downside risk FI or Financial Independence is the new debt-free and getting back to 0 is just the beginning of a wonderful journey. Whether you have mountains of debt now or are recently debt free and wondering what to do next, Choose FI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence will give you the information to guide your next move. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Federal School Code List , 2007 |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Paying for College, 2022 The Princeton Review, Kalman Chany, 2022-02-08 Make sure you’re preparing with the most up-to-date materials! Look for The Princeton Review’s newest edition of this book, Paying for College, 2023 (ISBN: 9780593516492, on-sale September 2022). Publisher's Note: Products purchased from third-party sellers are not guaranteed by the publisher for quality or authenticity, and may not include access to online tests or materials included with the original product. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: 529 and Other College Savings Plans For Dummies Margaret A. Munro, 2011-04-27 There’s no question: The cost of college continues to soar, even when the rest of the economy stagnates, and this reality is not likely to change any time soon. Fortunately, everyone, including you, the various governments (federal and state), and the colleges themselves, are in on this secret, so everyone can plan and plot, well in advance of that eventual first day of your child’s freshman year, ways to get that child there, and ways to help you pay the bills when they happen. Consider this book to be your accomplice. 529 & Other College Savings Plans For Dummies is simply a way to find a reasonable solution to a seemingly unreasonable problem: saving for future college costs in the sanest, least stressful way possible for you. In keeping with the theme of stress reduction, you can use this book in a variety of ways: As a reference: It’s all here: the ins, the outs, the do’s, and the don’ts. The world of college savings is one of very specific rules, and they’re here, in all their glory, and they’re all explained. As an advisor: It’s a case of the very good savings techniques, the merely okay savings techniques, and the truly ugly techniques (which you really want to avoid), and this book highlights them all. As a little light reading: Amazingly enough, the topic of money can be mildly amusing, and college savings is no exception. Read this with an eye towards the absurd, and you won’t go far wrong. This down-to-earth book is designed to explain the strategies that are out there to help you save, save, save. There’s no doubt that the bill will be large; there’s also no question that, with planning, strategy, and purpose, you can achieve your goal. To help you get there, this book covers all these vital topics, and more: Evaluating all your resources Understanding the basics of Section 529 plans Working around the 529 shortcomings Contributing to Coverdell accounts Choosing savings bonds that work Looking at your investment options Searching for scholarships, fellowships, and grants Tapping into your Roth IRA Financial Aid 101 In this one-size-fits-all world, the powers that be have recognized that all people don’t save money the same way. Some save more, some save less, some can live with risk, and others can’t tolerate any risk. Clearly, no two are alike, but you’re all savers, either present or potential. Numerous options exist that make saving possible and desirable for everyone. 529 & Other College Savings Plans For Dummies is here to tell you that it is possible to understand the costs associated with college, both right now and in the future, and then find ways to pay for those costs. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Route 529 Patricia A Roberts, 2020-10-12 Are you concerned you won't be able to afford the cost of college or career training for your children? Are you confused about how to start saving for your children's future? Have you heard of 529 plans but don't understand how they work? Do you want to sleep well at night knowing you're doing the best you can to help to help the children in your life fulfill their dreams whatever they may be? Discover how an easy-to-use saving and investing tool can help you prepare to pay for their education and avoid the debt and regret associated with not planning ahead. Author Patricia Roberts has helped tens of thousands of families prepare for the cost of higher education through her 20+ years of professional experience with 529 college savings plans. She explains in encouraging and easy-to-understand terms exactly how to put a savings and investing plan in place with just a few easy steps and how to stick with it over time. THROUGH ROUTE 529, YOU'LL GAIN: - Valuable information on how effective and easy-to-use 529 college savings plans can be; - Inspiration to get started and information on how to stay on track no matter where you are in your education savings journey; - Insight about how others can contribute so you don't need to go it alone; - Strategies to avoid the burden of student loan debt by making smart moves while on the road to college and career training; - Peace of mind and so much more! If you like easy-to-understand information, easy-to-follow steps that you can immediately begin to take, and encouragement and great ideas from a mom who's been through the process of getting her child to and through college debt-free, this book is for you! Get Route 529 today and hop in the driver's seat to get your children to the futures they dream of with the peace of mind you deserve. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Paying for College Without Going Broke Kalman A. Chany, Geoff Martz, 2009 Presents a guide to controlling college costs that furnishes helpful tips on the financial aid packages available, filling out application forms, educational loans, updated tax regulations, and additional sources of revenue. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Digest of Education Statistics 2019 Education Department, 2021-05-30 The Digest of Education Statistics provides a compilation of statistical information covering the broad field of education from prekindergarten through graduate school. It includes a selection of data from many sources and draws especially on the results and activities carried out by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Repaying Your Student Loans , 2002 |
| 529 plans and financial aid: How to Appeal for More College Financial Aid Mark Kantrowitz, 2019-01-11 College financial aid is not like negotiating with a car dealership, where bluff and bluster will get you a bigger, better deal. Appealing for more financial aid depends on presenting the college financial aid office with adequate documentation of special circumstances that affect the family's ability to pay for college.This book provides a guide for students and their families on how to appeal for more financial aid for college and how to improve the likelihood of a successful appeal. This book also discusses techniques for increasing eligibility for need-based financial aid and merit aid.The topics covered by this book include corrections, updates, special circumstances, writing an effective financial aid appeal letter, adequate documentation, professional judgment adjustments, unusual circumstances, dependency overrides and the differences between the FAFSA and CSS Profile forms. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: 529 Plans Nancy E. Shurtz, Alexander B. Fitch, Robert Tirrell, 2022-05-02 Focus on 529 plans compared to other education techniques-- |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Dream Hoarders Richard Reeves, 2018-05-08 Dream Hoarders sparked a national conversation on the dangerous separation between the upper middle class and everyone else. Now in paperback and newly updated for the age of Trump, Brookings Institution senior fellow Richard Reeves is continuing to challenge the class system in America. In America, everyone knows that the top 1 percent are the villains. The rest of us, the 99 percent—we are the good guys. Not so, argues Reeves. The real class divide is not between the upper class and the upper middle class: it is between the upper middle class and everyone else. The separation of the upper middle class from everyone else is both economic and social, and the practice of “opportunity hoarding”—gaining exclusive access to scarce resources—is especially prevalent among parents who want to perpetuate privilege to the benefit of their children. While many families believe this is just good parenting, it is actually hurting others by reducing their chances of securing these opportunities. There is a glass floor created for each affluent child helped by his or her wealthy, stable family. That glass floor is a glass ceiling for another child. Throughout Dream Hoarders, Reeves explores the creation and perpetuation of opportunity hoarding, and what should be done to stop it, including controversial solutions such as ending legacy admissions to school. He offers specific steps toward reducing inequality and asks the upper middle class to pay for it. Convinced of their merit, members of the upper middle class believes they are entitled to those tax breaks and hoarded opportunities. After all, they aren't the 1 percent. The national obsession with the super rich allows the upper middle class to convince themselves that they are just like the rest of America. In Dream Hoarders, Reeves argues that in many ways, they are worse, and that changes in policy and social conscience are the only way to fix the broken system. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: The Best Way to Save for College Joseph F. Hurley, 2003 |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Dear Debt Melanie Lockert, 2016-08-12 In her debut book Dear Debt, personal finance expert Melanie Lockert combines her endearing and humorous personal narrative with practical tools to help readers overcome the crippling effects of debt. Drawing from her personal experience of paying off eighty thousand dollars of student loan debt, Melanie provides a wealth of money-saving tips to help her community of debt fighters navigate the repayment process, increase current income, and ultimately become debt-free. By breaking down complex financial concepts into clear, manageable tools and step-by-step processes, Melanie has provided a venerable guide to overcoming debt fatigue and obtaining financial freedom. Inside Dear Debt you will learn to: • Find the debt repayment strategy most effective for your needs • Avoid spending temptations by knowing your triggers • Replace expensive habits with cheaper alternatives • Become a frugal friend without being rude • Start a side hustle to boost your current income • Negotiate your salary to maximize value • Develop a financial plan for life after debt |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Financial Aid and Beyond Fred Amrein, Mba Fred Amrein, 2014-11-14 Sorting through the maze of financial aid, college saving plans, educational tax credits and student loan options can be a daunting task for families making their college decision. This easy to read book gives families a comprehensive roadmap for making the best college financial decision. Readers will enjoy the insider notes throughout the book that give informative tips on the entire college funding process.Financial Aid and Beyond includes:* Insights into how colleges develop their financial aid award letters* Understand why a four-year college cash flow analysis makes comparing college value critical* Easy to understand roadmap from saving for college to student loan forgiveness and everything in between* Strategies on how to focus on the financial outcome of a college education* Introduction of a new concept called the Admission and Financial Aid MatrixGet practical guidance and understand the secrets to college affordability. Become an informed consumer and avoid costly mistakes. Parents and students will appreciate the proven strategies for saving and paying college tuition, along with insights on student loans and repayment options. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: The 529 College Savings Plan Richard A. Feigenbaum, David J. Morton, 2002 The new way to fund higher education. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: J.K. Lasser's 1001 Deductions and Tax Breaks 2017 Barbara Weltman, 2016-10-03 The complete guide to all deductions and credits for individual taxpayers J.K. Lasser's 1001 Deductions and Tax Breaks shows you just how much money you can save on your taxes—legally—simply by taking advantage of what's out there. Millions of Americans overpay their taxes by billions of dollars every year, because constantly evolving laws and regulations make keeping track of deductions and breaks next to impossible for the everyday taxpayer. This book helps you put a stop to overpayment so you can keep more of your hard-earned money. J.K. Lasser has compiled a complete list of every possible deduction and credit available to American taxpayers, and provides clear, easy-to-follow instructions for claiming what is rightfully yours. Fully updated to reflect the latest rulings and laws—including an e-supplement with the latest tax developments from the IRS and Congress—this book answers all of your Can I claim... questions with guidance from the nation's most trusted tax advisors. Many taxpayers are so afraid of an audit that they fail to take advantage of perfectly legal write-offs. You are entitled to this money. Tax breaks and deductions are written into tax law to help everyday Americans like yourself keep more of what you've earned. This book is your ticket to a streamlined filing and potentially substantial savings. Identify all deductions that apply to your situation Find the most up-to-date requirements for your 2016 filing Mine your expenses, business, and job for deduction opportunities Learn how to claim deductions and breaks correctly Forget complex tax strategies, and don't bother trying to game the system. The opportunities to save are all laid out in black and white, and J.K. Lasser has parsed the fine print so you don't have to. J.K. Lasser's 1001 Deductions and Tax Breaks is the definitive guide to filing your 2016 taxes with a smile. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs) United States. Internal Revenue Service, 1990 |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Advice That Sticks Moira Somers, 2018-02-28 The advice is sound; the client seems eager; and then... nothing happens! Too often, this is the experience that financial professionals encounter in their daily work. When good recommendations go unimplemented, clients’ well-being is compromised, opportunities are lost, and the professional relationship grows strained. Advice that Sticks takes aim at the problem of financial non-adherence. Written by a neuropsychologist and financial change expert, this book examines the five main factors that determine whether a client will follow through with financial advice. Individual client psychology plays a role in non-adherence; so, too, do sociocultural and environmental factors, general advice characteristics, and specific challenges pertaining to the emotionally loaded domain of money. Perhaps most surprising, however, is the extent to which advice-givers themselves can foil implementation. A great deal of non-adherence is due to preventable mistakes made by financial professionals and their teams. The author integrates her extensive clinical and consulting experience with research findings from the fields of positive psychology, behavioural economics, neuroscience, and medicine. What emerges is a thoughtful, funny, but above all practical guide for anyone who makes a living providing financial advice. It will become an indispensable handbook for people working with clients across the wealth spectrum. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: The Retirement Scholarship Strategy Lance Morgan, 2018-04-02 Discover the new way to save and pay for college without sacrificing your retirement with the retirement scholarship strategy. Plus, learn how to reduce the cost of college without searching for private scholarships. This strategy works for those who have younger kids or students already in high school. It works for those who already have college savings or those who don't have any college savings and a senior in high school. This is not a product like a 529 plan. It is a financial strategy that is used by the banks, ultra wealthy, and large corporations. As a father of 5 kids myself, I understand the stress of paying for college. Fortunately there is a solution that I call the retirement scholarship strategy. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Guide to Saving for College Virginia B. Morris, 2005 |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Financial Advice for Blue-Collar America Kathryn Hauer, 2016-06-26 Sound financial behavior involves spending less than you earn, saving money for the future, managing the risks of life with the right amount of insurance, legally minimizing taxes, and investing the money you save wisely. Financial information like this applies to everyone; however, this book speaks to current and future blue-collar workers and their unique financial concerns. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Paying for College Howard R. Greene, Matthew W. Greene, 2004-10-05 In the last 20 years, tuition has increased by a factor of more than 200 percent, which is 3 times the increase in earned income of the average family. It takes from 25 to 30 percent of a family's yearly after tax earnings to pay for a single child's college education. Utilizing their access to college counseling, admissions, and financial aid professionals at colleges and universities across the country, this father and son team have developed a program to make paying for college manageable. They enlighten, motivate, and encourage students and their parents to follow a set of 10 principles designed to help families get a handle on saving and financing a college education. Their mission is to reassure and to help families of every income level and at every stage of preparation to plan a strategy for paying for college. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Education Planning Nancy Shurtz, 2009 An invaluabl, in-depth resource for the estate and tax planning strategies and vehicles available for families saving for higher education. While focusingon all aspects of the popular 529 plans, the author also provides information on all other savings options, including 529 prepaid plans, Coverdell Educational Savings Accounts, qualified savings bonds, UGMAs/UTMAs, trusts, insurance, financial aid, grants, scholarships, and loans. It compares and contrasts techniques and applies them to different income groups. Includes numerous planning tips, charts, and examples. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Debt-Free Degree Anthony ONeal, 2019-10-07 Every parent wants the best for their child. That’s why they send them to college! But most parents struggle to pay for school and end up turning to student loans. That’s why the majority of graduates walk away with $35,000 in student loan debt and no clue what that debt will really cost them.1 Student loan debt doesn’t open doors for young adults—it closes them. They postpone getting married and starting a family. That debt even takes away their freedom to pursue their dreams. But there is a different way. Going to college without student loans is possible! In Debt-Free Degree, Anthony ONeal teaches parents how to get their child through school without debt, even if they haven’t saved for it. He also shows parents: *How to prepare their child for college *Which classes to take in high school *How and when to take the ACT and SAT *The right way to do college visits *How to choose a major A college education is supposed to prepare a graduate for their future, not rob them of their paycheck and freedom for decades. Debt-Free Degree shows parents how to pay cash for college and set their child up to succeed for life. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: The College Solution Lynn O'Shaughnessy, 2008-06-06 “The College Solution helps readers look beyond over-hyped admission rankings to discover schools that offer a quality education at affordable prices. Taking the guesswork out of saving and finding money for college, this is a practical and insightful must-have guide for every parent!” —Jaye J. Fenderson, Seventeen’s College Columnist and Author, Seventeen’s Guide to Getting into College “This book is a must read in an era of rising tuition and falling admission rates. O’Shaughnessy offers good advice with blessed clarity and brevity.” —Jay Mathews, Washington Post Education Writer and Columnist “I would recommend any parent of a college-bound student read The College Solution.” —Kal Chany, Author, The Princeton Review’s Paying for College Without Going Broke “The College Solution goes beyond other guidebooks in providing an abundance of information about how to afford college, in addition to how to approach the selection process by putting the student first.” —Martha “Marty” O’Connell, Executive Director, Colleges That Change Lives “Lynn O’Shaughnessy always focuses on what’s in the consumer’s best interest, telling families how to save money and avoid making costly mistakes.” —Mark Kantrowitz, Publisher, FinAid.org and Author, FastWeb College Gold “An antidote to the hype and hysteria about getting in and paying for college! O’Shaughnessy has produced an excellent overview that demystifies the college planning process for students and families.” —Barmak Nassirian, American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers For millions of families, the college planning experience has become extremely stressful. And, unless your child is an elite student in the academic top 1%, most books on the subject won’t help you. Now, however, there’s a college guide for everyone. In The College Solution, top personal finance journalist Lynn O’Shaughnessy presents an easy-to-use roadmap to finding the right college program (not just the most hyped) and dramatically reducing the cost of college, too. Forget the rankings! Discover what really matters: the quality and value of the programs your child wants and deserves. O’Shaughnessy uncovers “industry secrets” on how colleges actually parcel out financial aid—and how even “average” students can maximize their share. Learn how to send your kids to expensive private schools for virtually the cost of an in-state public college...and how promising students can pay significantly less than the “sticker price” even at the best state universities. No other book offers this much practical guidance on choosing a college...and no other book will save you as much money! • Secrets your school’s guidance counselor doesn’t know yet The surprising ways colleges have changed how they do business • Get every dime of financial aid that’s out there for you Be a “fly on the wall” inside the college financial aid office • U.S. News & World Report: clueless about your child Beyond one-size-fits-all rankings: finding the right program for your teenager • The best bargains in higher education Overlooked academic choices that just might be perfect for you |
| 529 plans and financial aid: How to Go to College Almost for Free Ben Kaplan, 2008-06-01 Presents a step-by-step guide for prospective college students that shows students of all ages how to find and win scholarship prizes and cut down on student debt. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Higher Education U. s. Government Accountability Office, 2013-03-15 A small percentage of U.S. families saved in 529 plans in 2010, and those who did tended to be wealthier than others. According to the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF), less than 3 percent of families saved in a 529 plan or Coverdell Education Savings Account (Coverdell)--a similar but less often used college savings vehicle also included in the SCF. While the economic downturn may have reduced income available for education savings, even among those families who considered saving for education a priority, fewer than 1 in 10 had a 529 plan (or Coverdell). Families with these accounts had about 25 times the median financial assets of those without. They also had about 3 times the median income and the percentage who had college degrees was about twice as high as for families without 529 plans (or Coverdells). States offer consumers a variety of 529 plan features that, along with several other factors, can affect participation. Some of the most important features families consider when choosing a 529 plan are tax benefits, fees, and investment options, according to experts and state officials GAO interviewed. These features can vary across the state plans. For example, in July 2012, total annual asset-based fees ranged from 0 to 2.78 percent depending on the type of plan. 529 plan officials and experts GAO interviewed said participation is also affected by families' ability to save, their awareness of 529 plans as a savings option, and the difficulty in choosing a plan given the amount of variation between plans. Selected states, however, have taken steps to address these barriers. For example, to address families' ability to save, particularly for low-income families, some states have adopted plans that include less risky investments, have low minimum contributions, and match families' contributions. Savings in 529 plans affect financial aid similarly to a family's other assets. For federal aid, a family's assets affect how much it is expected to contribute to the cost of college. If the amount of those assets exceeds a certain threshold, then a percentage is expected to be used for college costs. For example, for students who are dependent on their parents, the percentage of parental assets, including savings in 529 plans, that the family may be expected to contribute ranges from 2.64 to 5.64 percent. Many states and selected institutions also treat 529 plan savings the same as other family assets. However, a few states provide them with special treatment, such as exempting those funds from their financial aid calculation. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Twisdoms about Paying for College Mark Kantrowitz, 2015-08-06 A twisdom is a tweetable wisdom, a short quotable quote that conveys practical advice, such as a simple strategy or actionable rule of thumb. This book compiles more than 400 twisdoms about planning and paying for college. One example of a popular twisdom is Every dollar you borrow will cost about two dollars by the time you repay the debt. Another example is Total student loan debt at graduation should be less than the borrower's annual starting salary, and, ideally, a lot less. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: 529 & Education Savings Plans For Dummies Margaret A. Munro, 2023-04-18 Don’t let money get in the way of your kids’ best education 529 & Education Savings Plans For Dummies helps you sort through the vast amount of information about education savings accounts and choose the plans that are best for you and your family. A college or private K-12 education is generally parents’ single largest expense for their children. 529 plans and 530 plans (Coverdell accounts) are relatively solid investment vehicles that can make saving for college much easier, providing tax advantages that other types of investments can’t match. Education savings can be part of your overall wealth accumulation strategy, and this book can show you which plans are right for you, help you decide when to start saving, and guide you through determining how much to save per year in order to meet your goals—and help your kids meet theirs. Learn about the different types of tax-sheltered and tax-advantaged ways to save for education Create a saving and investment strategy that makes sense for your family Demystify the 529 and 530 plan rules and maximize your tax advantage Help set your kids on the path to success and to their college of choice This is the perfect Dummies guide for parents or family members who want to begin saving for a college or K-12 education and who may want to supplement their current savings with tax-sheltered, education-specific accounts, or tax-advantaged investment accounts that may be used for education funding. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: Retirement the Right Way Clint Haynes, 2022-02 Retirement is one of the most significant changes that can happen over the course of a human life. So why don't we give it the thought and attention it deserves? Most of us focus just on the financial piece, and getting across the finish line. But what will it really mean for you to exit the workforce and retire?Clint Haynes' seminal book offers a balanced perspective on retiring. In it, you will hear from folks of all walks of life, how they navigated their retirement transition, and what they learned about themselves in the process. It includes 27 Essential Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Retire that will challenge you to look at your blind spots and help clarify and simplify your future.RETIREMENT THE RIGHT WAY is your comprehensive roadmap to retiring well. It collaborates with you to design your best plan for a smooth, secure transition into retirement... and how to enjoy it fully once you're in. |
| 529 plans and financial aid: The White Coat Investor's Financial Boot Camp James M. Dahle, 2019-03 Doctors and other high income professionals receive little training in personal finance, investing, or business. This book teaches them what they did not learn in school or residency. It includes information on insurance, personal finance, budgeting, buying housing, mortgages, student loan management, retirement accounts, taxes, investing, correcting errors, paying for college, estate planning and asset protection. |
PA 529 | College and Career Savings Program
The Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program offers two 529 plans – the PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (GSP) and the PA 529 Investment Plan (IP) – and sponsors …
GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN - PA 529 College and Career …
The PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (PA 529 GSP) is unique because you can save for tomorrow’s education expenses at today’s plan rates. Plus, you get a Pennsylvania state tax …
News - PA 529 College and Career Savings Program
The Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program (PA 529) offers two different plans. The PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (GSP) is a lower-risk plan that helps your savings keep …
INVESTMENT PLAN - PA 529 College and Career Savings …
The PA 529 Investment Plan (IP) received its second consecutive Morningstar Gold Rating in 2024, standing out as one of the best plans rated by the financial services company. Anyone …
PENNSYLVANIA 529 GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN
PENNSYLVANIA 529 GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN CREDIT RATE SCHEDULE 2020-2021. 2 | 2020-21 Guaranteed Savings Plan | Credit Rate Schedule (See the GSP Disclosure …
Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program
TIMING: The Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program 529 Day 2025 Promotion (Promotion) begins on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) and ends on …
Important Changes Coming to the PA 529 Investment Plan!
The PA 529 College Savings Program is making some important changes to your PA 529 Investment Plan (IP) account. An overview of these changes is outlined in this brochure. First, …
PENNSYLVANIA 529 GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN
PENNSYLVANIA 529 GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN Credit Rate Schedule 2024-2025. 1 | 2024-25 Guaranteed Savings Plan | Credit Rate Schedule (See the GSP Disclosure …
Conéctese con nuestro equipo y aprenda más: pa529
El Programa de Ahorro Universitario y Profesional 529 de Pensilvania ofrece dos planes 529: el Plan de Ahorro Garantizado (GSP) PA 529 y el Plan de Inversión (IP) PA 529, y patrocina …
Introducing Pennsylvania’s New Employer Tax Credit
employees’ 529 accounts. Pennsylvania employers are now eligible to claim a 25% state tax credit against the aggregate amount of all matching contributions to employee 529 accounts of …
PA 529 | College and Career Savings Program
The Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program offers two 529 plans – the PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (GSP) and the PA 529 Investment Plan (IP) – and sponsors …
GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN - PA 529 College and Career …
The PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (PA 529 GSP) is unique because you can save for tomorrow’s education expenses at today’s plan rates. Plus, you get a Pennsylvania state tax …
News - PA 529 College and Career Savings Program
The Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program (PA 529) offers two different plans. The PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (GSP) is a lower-risk plan that helps your savings keep …
INVESTMENT PLAN - PA 529 College and Career Savings …
The PA 529 Investment Plan (IP) received its second consecutive Morningstar Gold Rating in 2024, standing out as one of the best plans rated by the financial services company. Anyone …
PENNSYLVANIA 529 GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN
PENNSYLVANIA 529 GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN CREDIT RATE SCHEDULE 2020-2021. 2 | 2020-21 Guaranteed Savings Plan | Credit Rate Schedule (See the GSP Disclosure …
Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program
TIMING: The Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program 529 Day 2025 Promotion (Promotion) begins on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) and ends on …
Important Changes Coming to the PA 529 Investment Plan!
The PA 529 College Savings Program is making some important changes to your PA 529 Investment Plan (IP) account. An overview of these changes is outlined in this brochure. First, …
PENNSYLVANIA 529 GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN
PENNSYLVANIA 529 GUARANTEED SAVINGS PLAN Credit Rate Schedule 2024-2025. 1 | 2024-25 Guaranteed Savings Plan | Credit Rate Schedule (See the GSP Disclosure …
Conéctese con nuestro equipo y aprenda más: pa529
El Programa de Ahorro Universitario y Profesional 529 de Pensilvania ofrece dos planes 529: el Plan de Ahorro Garantizado (GSP) PA 529 y el Plan de Inversión (IP) PA 529, y patrocina …
Introducing Pennsylvania’s New Employer Tax Credit
employees’ 529 accounts. Pennsylvania employers are now eligible to claim a 25% state tax credit against the aggregate amount of all matching contributions to employee 529 accounts of …
