College Savings & 529 Plans

Yes, you can roll eligible unused 529 plan money into a Roth IRA for the 529 beneficiary. But a 529 to Roth IRA rollover is not a simple $35,000 transfer. The account-age rule, five-year contribution rule, annual IRA limit, beneficiary's compensation, and direct-transfer requirement all have to line up. That...

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the rising costs of college education? Worried about how to pay for tuition and expenses when you go to college? Don't worry, you're not alone! Many students and parents face the challenge of financing higher education. But fear not! In this article, we'll explore different...

As a financial planner for almost 3 decades, I’ve seen more families stressed out by the FAFSA website than by the stock market. You’ve spent hours gathering tax documents and personal information, only to be stopped by a vague, infuriating message: "FAFSA On The Web Has Encountered An Error." Take a...

FAFSA is the free application that opens the door to federal student aid, including grants, work-study, and federal student loans. States, colleges, and some private aid programs also use FAFSA information. The form itself is not a loan, not an aid offer, and not a bill. As a financial planner...

That sinking feeling in your stomach is real. You just realized you missed a FAFSA® deadline, and your mind is probably jumping to the worst-case scenario: no college, huge loans, and a very disappointed family. "I Missed The FAFSA Deadline Am I Screwed?" Before you spiral, take a deep breath. You...

On March 14, 2025, I watched the Robinsons’ jaws drop when they saw their 529 plan had yielded just 0.8% over five years—because it sat in cash. Here’s the truth nobody tells you: a 529 plan isn’t just a “college piggy-bank,” it’s a turbo-charged education savings vehicle. With tax-free growth, penalty-free tuition...

Florida Prepaid lets eligible families buy defined future tuition or dormitory coverage in advance instead of investing that money in the market. New Prepaid 529 Plans are now sold in one-year increments, and as of May 29, 2026, enrollment is available year-round. This page is the product/mechanics guide: what Florida...