![](/sites/markhansen.us1.advisor.ws/files/styles/max_325x325/public/images/sc_-_blog_-_how_to_plan_your_families_education_expenses.png?itok=0PWmE0hh)
How To Plan Your Family's Education Expenses: Smart Investment Choices
"Pitfall to Watch: Be aware of the specific rules in your state and potential penalties if funds are not used for educational purposes."
How To Plan Your Family's Education Expenses: Smart Investment Choices
Are you feeling the pressure of soaring education costs?
Today's financial landscape, where college expenses feel like they're increasing more and more each year, can be a genuine concern for single-income families.
But here's the good news: with strategic financial planning, you can navigate these challenges and work to secure a bright future for your loved ones.
2. Coverdell ESAs: Flexible Education Funding
While similar to 529 plans, Coverdell ESAs come with unique advantages:
Investment Flexibility: Diversify your investments beyond mutual or index funds. You could source the help of a financial advisor to find a mix of investments that suit the purpose and goals of the account.
Financial Aid Impact: If owned by the beneficiary, it won't significantly impact financial aid. Typically, a percentage of the account will be counted againt financial aid eligibility given the account could be used for education expenses.
Pitfall to Watch: Be mindful of the low annual contribution limit, the age requirements for contributions to be made, and the requirement to utilize funds before the beneficiary turns 30. There are also special circumstances for any child with special needs or requiring special needs assistance.
The good news is there are many ways to go about saving for college and higher education.
This list here is just the tip of the iceberg, and should not be considered exhaustive.
Additionally, many accounts for education have limits and requirements that are constantly being modified by the expiration of old laws or the passing of new laws.
It's vital you talk to your financial professional to put together a plan to either have the funds ready when college arrives or a plan for navigating student loans (or both).
As a single-income family, it can feel hard to set aside money for such a large expense, but starting is the key!
The best time to start saving was yesterday. The second best time is today.