If your thoughts of spring include a tax refund check, you may opt to use your windfall to benefit your future, rather than spend it now. Some uses you may consider include adding your refund to your retirement savings or investing in continuing education. For more ideas on how to make your refund work for you, read this C.P.A. Insight.
Section 529 College Savings Plans offer families an effective way to save for college costs including tuition, books and room and board. The advantages to 529 Plans include portability, tax advantages, age-based asset allocation and professionally managed portfolios. However, there are some disadvantages as well. For more information on these drawbacks and who should consider a 529 Plan, read this Financial Strategy.
A Roth IRA account can be used to save for both retirement and education expenses; however, there are some disadvantages to doing so, including lower contribution limits and the possibility of taxed earnings. For more information on Roth IRA rules and how an account affects education savings, read this Financial Strategy.
The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009 provided several tax incentives regarding saving for college and paying tuition for higher education for the 2009 and 2010 tax years. For more information on how the Act affects 529 College Savings Plans and the newly created American Opportunity credit, read this C.P.A. Insight.
One of the many ways to pay for a college education is a Section 529 Prepaid Tuition Plan. This plan allows you to lock in tuition at the current rate. One caveat to this plan is that it is considered a parental asset, causing a dollar-for-dollar reduction in financial aid eligibility. For a detailed comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of a prepaid tuition plan, read this Financial Strategy.
Residents of Georgia are eligible for a state tax deduction for contributions to Georgia’s 529 College Savings Plan regardless of income. Because of this tax benefit, residents should consider this plan as a savings vehicle for higher education costs. For more information on Georgia’s plan and the seven available investment options, read this week’s Financial Strategy.
A college education will be one of the most expensive purchases a family will make, so it is best to start saving early to an account specifically designated for education funds.
The HOPE Scholarship programs were established in 1993 for Georgia residents who are seeking a higher education degree. There are several types of HOPE programs, including grants, scholarships and scholarships for non-traditional students.
With the average cost of a higher education increasing, families often find that they need assistance to pay for their children’s education. If a student does not qualify for scholarships or grants, the next source for funds is an education loan. Currently, over 50% of financial aid comes in the form of loans.
An independent 529 Plan is a prepaid tuition plan for private colleges and universities. Account holders buy certificates that are redeemable for a pre-established percentage or tuition at any member school.
