Funding college for grandchildren

The most popular tax advantaged plans to pay for college education ar called “529 Plans.”  They allow people to put money into tax sheltered accounts which, if they are withdrawn for educational expenses are tax free.

Grandparent-owned 529 accounts offer distinct advantages.  Grandparents concerned about estate taxes can move large sums from their estate, tax-free. They can help trim college costs for their progeny. And there’s security knowing that money in 529 plans can be redeemed, if necessary, often with a modest tax bill.

One other advantage the 529 Plan has is that the grandparent stays in control of the money in the plans to insure that it’s used for the purpose it was intended.   With the high cost of college education today, many grandparents who have the ability will be willing to put money aside for their grandchildren’s education rather than gifts of games or toys.