529 Archives - College Countdown

Parenting

From Waitress to Host: Lessons in Overcoming Obstacles

As both a first-gen student from a low-income family who had minimal support in my college planning process, and as a mom who recently helped see my son through his…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.December 15, 2024

Using Your 529

Giving Thanks for 529 Plans

Here are five 529 plan attributes that make them worthy of appreciation this time of year and as college nears: 1. Tax-Free Growth 529 plan tax advantages put them in…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.November 14, 2024

Using Your 529

State Treasurer Fiona Ma Appoints Cassandra DiBenedetto

As Executive Director, DiBenedetto will provide policy, program, and technical direction to the SIB for a program with nearly $16 billion in assets under management and nearly 440,000 accounts through…

ScholarShare 529November 12, 2024

Close-up of Benjamin Franklins eyes on the U.S.

Affording College

6 Financial Steps to Avoid When College Costs are Around the Corner

While some routes are better than others, others can have an adverse impact on your family’s financial health. Here are six financial missteps to avoid when college costs are soon…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.November 11, 2024

Using Your 529

Options for School Refunds

Depending on the nature and timing of the change in direction, it’s possible that your child could be eligible for a partial refund from the institution they are attending. What…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.October 1, 2024

Using Your 529

529 Withdrawals: Avoid the Pitfalls

Withdrawing funds is straightforward, but these tips can help you avoid common mistakes.* 1. Stick to qualified expenses To avoid federal income taxes and the 10% penalty on earnings, withdraw…

ScholarShare 529September 11, 2024

Affording College

When 529 Funds Are Not Needed As Planned

The reasons parents find themselves no longer need to fully utilize the value of their 529 account most typically relate to the student’s receipt of a full or partial scholarship,…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.June 15, 2024

Senior Student Using Your 529

Weathering the First-Year Adjustment Phase

First-year students may express specific concerns, for instance, about the quality of food or residence halls, the workload in certain classes, roommate compatibility, or just garden variety homesickness. Some students…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.August 17, 2023

Senior Student Using Your 529

How To: Requesting Gift Contributions

One of the most unique features of your ScholarShare 529 account is the capability to ask for help from friends and family. Send them a Ugift® Invitation for a special…

ScholarShare 529August 4, 2023

Affording College Junior Student Senior Student Using Your 529

The True Costs of College: Financial Aid 101

It is normal for this part of the equation to feel a bit stressful and overwhelming. I have counseled hundreds of students and families over the years to address questions:…

Laura Reisert Kalinkewicz, Ph.D.August 1, 2023

Affording College Senior Student Using Your 529

Applying for Financial Aid

As you are researching where they will apply, you will likely notice the cost differences across all degree-granting institutions. Tuition and fees, books, educational materials (e.g., laptop), technology fees, and…

Oscar Espinoza-Parra, Ph.D.July 29, 2023

Using Your 529

Reflecting on the Impact of Your 529 Investments

With college in the not-so-distant future, it’s a perfect time to stop and reflect on the positive effects your 529 investments have had -- and will continue to have --…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.July 21, 2023

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