Although contributions are not deductible, earnings in a 529 plan grow federal tax-free and will not be taxed when the money is taken out to pay for college.

What expenses qualify for tax free distributions from a 529 plan?

Qualified expenses that 529s cover. A tax-advantaged 529 college savings plan can be used to pay for college, but not all expenses qualify.

Can a 529 plan be used to pay for college?

States sponsor 529 plans, which allow a benefactor to save up money to pay for college tuition without paying federal or state taxes on the interest income. The student can withdraw money from the plan to pay for educational expenses such as textbooks, tuition fees and other expenses such as pens and paper.

Is the 529 savings account a tax deduction?

No matter the expenses that the 529 money goes toward, growing college funds in a 529 savings account without adding to your tax burden is a significant tax benefit. There are no federal 529 plan tax deductions

Is there penalty for cashing out 529 plan?

Although the benefactor has to pay a penalty on a withdrawal that isn’t for the student’s school costs, a withdrawal still provides tax advantages. According to the Financial Services Review, the benefactor pays ordinary income taxes on the withdrawal amount during the year the plan is cashed out, plus an additional 10 percent penalty.

What can I withdraw from a 529 plan in California?

Either type of withdrawal can be used for expenses within or outside California. You can use up to $10,000 per calendar year in 529 assets to help pay for tuition in at an elementary or secondary public, private or religious school.