Anyone! Family members can open 529 accounts for their relatives. If one child in a family doesn’t end up needing 529 savings, the money can typically be transferred to another eligible family member without tax consequences. Before you open an account, decide how you want to contribute.

How much can you put in a 529 plan per year per kid?

One of the many benefits of saving for a child’s future college education with a 529 plan is that contributions are considered gifts for tax purposes. In 2021, gifts totaling up to $15,000 per individual will qualify for the annual gift tax exclusion, the same as in 2020, in 2019 and in 2018.

Can a 529 plan be used for a child?

If you contribute to a 529 plan but don’t use all of the money, you have a couple of options. First, you can change the beneficiary of the plan to your child, grandchild or spouse in the future. This could give you a big head start on saving for your child’s education. You won’t have to pay any taxes or penalties for doing so.

Is it a gift to contribute to a 529 plan?

One of the many benefits of saving for a child’s future college education with a 529 plan is that contributions are considered gifts for tax purposes.

When to start saving for a 529 plan?

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Parents should start saving as early as possible to get the maximum benefit from their 529 college savings plan. That means enrolling in a 529 plan when their first child is born, or even sooner.

Can you take money out of 529 to pay for college?

You can withdraw up to $10,000 without paying federal income taxes to cover tuition at private or religious elementary and secondary schools. But unless you have additional savings tucked away, be cautious about using 529 money before your child reaches college, says Jim DiUlio, chairman of the College Savings Plan Network.