College Savings
How Much to Actually Save for College
Full funding is not the default. A newborn example compares 25%, 50% and 100% targets, then prices the retirement trade-off.
4 min read
Topic
College Savings
Pay for school without mortgaging your own retirement, and see what a 529 is really worth.
7 posts
College SavingsGuide
FAFSA, Without the Panic
The 2026-27 FAFSA uses 2024 tax information and current reportable assets. Gather records, identify contributors and request a review after income loss.
7 min read
College Savings
529 vs Custodial Account
A 529 suits education; an ordinary UTMA is an irrevocable gift. Compare control, tax and FAFSA treatment on the same $40,000 balance.
6 min read
College Savings
529 to Roth IRA Rollovers
The 2026 IRA limit is $7,500 for under-50s, but a 529 rollover also faces a $35,000 lifetime cap, ageing rules and available contribution room.
5 min read
College Savings
Does a 529 Hurt Financial Aid?
A $60,000 parent 529 can add up to $3,384 to the aid index. A dependent student-owned 529 gets parent treatment too; an ordinary UTMA does not.
5 min read
College Savings
What If Your Child Does Not Go to College?
On a $42,000 529 with $12,000 of earnings, the extra 10% federal tax is $1,200, not $4,200. Compare six routes for unused money.
5 min read
Editor's pick
College SavingsGuide
The 529 Plan, Explained
A 529 plan can shelter education investment gains. Compare state tax savings, fees and the cost of withdrawing money for something else.
9 min read
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