Navigating Educational Dreams
You’ve encouraged your young ones to excel academically since they first picked up a crayon, so it’s tough to rain on their parade by discussing finances as they weigh their college options.
Whether you’re welcoming a new baby into your family, or watching your children/grandchildren embark on their high school years, it’s hard not to wonder – how will you afford, and what’s the best way to pay for their higher education?
Back-to-school season is right around the corner, so what better time to address some of your most pressing questions about paying for college?
QUESTION 1: What is the cost of a college education?
According to collegedata.com, the average costs for tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 school year are:
- $10,940 at public colleges (in-state residents)
- $28,240 at public colleges (out-of-state residents)
- $39,400 at private colleges
*These costs do not include room and board, books, etc.
QUESTION 2: What’s the difference between a 529 plan, a UTMA, and a Coverdell ESA?
A 529 savings plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan designed to help pay for future education costs. The money in a 529 plan grows tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free if they’re used for qualified education expenses.
A UTMA, or Uniform Transfers to Minors Act, is a type of custodial account that allows you to save and invest money for a minor. The money in a UTMA account belongs to the minor, but it is controlled by a custodian until the minor reaches the age of majority, which is typically 18 or 21.
A Coverdell Education Savings Account (Coverdell ESA) is a tax- advantaged savings account that can be used to save for education expenses, including K-12 education. The money in a Coverdell ESA grows tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free if used for qualified education expenses. The maximum contribution is $2,000/year, and the funds must be used by the time a student is 30 years old.
There are pros and cons for each solution. If you’re curious about which option is best for your particular situation, simply click reply to this email.
QUESTION 3: How do I know if my child or grandchild would even qualify for financial aid?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the most common way to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA asks for information about income, assets, and family size. Based on this information, the FAFSA will calculate how much you’re expected to pay/contribute. The FASFA form has undergone a major revision for the upcoming financial aid season, which begins in just a few months. It’s important to understand how these changes may impact your personal situation. If you’re not sure, click reply to this email.
QUESTION 4: Should I use my life insurance policy as a means to pay for college?
Taking out a loan against the cash value may be the most common way to use a cash value life insurance policy to pay for college. When you take out a loan against the cash value, you’re essentially borrowing money from your life insurance company. The interest rates on these loans are typically lower than personal or student loans. However, there are drawbacks to using this as an option, so make sure to reach out so we can review your entire situation before making any decisions.
QUESTION 5: Should I take a loan or withdrawal from my 401(k) to fund my child’s education?
Generally, this is not advisable. Here are a few reasons why:
- A loan must be paid back in a term of no longer than 5 years, and any outstanding loan balance – if you leave that company – will be taxable.
- You will have to pay income taxes and a 10% early withdrawal penalty on the money you withdraw if you are younger than 59.5 years old.
- You will lose out on the potential earnings of the money in your 401(k) if you take a withdrawal.
- You may need the money in your 401(k) for your own retirement.
And, if your children are going to school this fall, why not instill some healthy financial habits before they head out the door!
Save on textbooks: Encourage them to buy or borrow used books, rent them from the college bookstore, or explore digital options.
Budgeting 101: Empower them to create a comprehensive budget that includes income, expenses, savings, and spending money.
Credit Card Savvy: Teach them the importance of responsible credit card use and the value of paying off balances each month.
If these five big questions brought up more questions as you evaluate your options, you’re not alone. We’re here to help! Click here and we can set up some time to talk through each one together.
Prior to investing in a 529 Plan investors should consider whether the investor’s or designated beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in such state’s qualified tuition program. Withdrawals used for qualified expenses are federally tax free. Tax treatment at the state level may vary. Please consult with your tax advisor before investing.
Investment advice offered through Integrated Partners, doing business as PRISM Financial Strategies, a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through M.S. Howells & Co., member FINRA/SIPC. M.S. Howells & Co, Integrated Partners and PRISM Financial Strategies are separate entities.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
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