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Funding College the Smart Way

Now is always the right time to learn about college preparation.

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Mastering College Funding 

Investing in your child's education is a significant financial commitment, but with careful preparation and foresight, you can help their future and manage any debt needed for schooling. We're ready for you to explore college savings vehicles and essential concepts that may put your child on the path to success.

The Power of College Savings Vehicles

Discover the benefits and flexibility of 529 Plans*, Coverdell ESA*, and other college savings choices. These specialized accounts offer tax advantages, which can help set your child up for success.

Estimate College Costs with Confidence

Use our college savings calculator to estimate future education expenses based on current trends. Be empowered to set realistic financial goals and stay on track while attempting to avoid surprises along the way.

Understanding the Expected Family Contribution

The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is a fundamental concept in college funding. Learn how it influences financial aid eligibility and strategies to manage it effectively.

Goal-Setting for Financial Success

Use the latest collegiate financial statistics, such as rising tuition costs and associated fees, to establish attainable milestones and help align your savings approach with your child's aspirations.

Explore a Variety of College Savings Choices

Discover the benefits of 529 Plans*, Coverdell ESA*, and more for your child's education:

Open A 529 Savings Plan*

Open A 529 Savings Plan*

Funding your child's collegiate education can be one of the most important decisions you make.

Put Money Into Eligible Savings Bonds

Put Money Into Eligible Savings Bonds

Savings vehicles are just one of the many strategies we employ on behalf of our clients.

Encourage Loved Ones to Help

Encourage Loved Ones to Help

Leveraging a Roth IRA to fund higher education is often overlooked despite it's efficiency.

Start A Roth IRA As A College Fund For Kids

Start A Roth IRA As A College Fund For Kids

Establishing clear directives can help loved ones contribute to your child's journey.

A Comprehensive Comparison: Community Colleges vs. Universities

Unveil the actual costs of two-year and four-year institutions and empower your decision-making.

Type Of School Residence Details Tuition & Fees With Room & Board
Public 4 Year In-State Funded by local and state governments, offering a lower tuition rate for in-state residents. Typically a four-year school. $11,260 $24,030
Public 4 Year Out-Of-State Students from out of state typically pay more because state schools are funded by tax dollars of residents in that state. $29,150 $41,920
Public 2 Year In-State Typically in-district community colleges that offer associates degrees or certificates. They can often be used as a stepping stone to attend a four-year school. $3,990 $13,960
Private 4 Year N/A Not funded by local or state governments. They rely mainly on tuition, fees, and private funding. $41,540 $56,190

Source: research.collegeboard.org

College Savings Insights

We recognize that higher education can help equip students for success in today's competitive job market. Delve into these valuable resources as you and your future graduate embark on your journey.

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Look to the Future

Take control of tomorrow and schedule a consultation with one of our college strategists today.

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*A 529 plan is a college savings plan that allows individuals to save for college on a tax-advantaged basis. The state tax treatment of 529 plans is only one factor to consider before committing to a savings plan. Also, consider any fees and expenses associated with a particular plan. Whether or not a state tax deduction is available will depend on your state of residence. State tax laws and treatment may vary. State tax laws may be different from federal tax laws. Earnings on nonqualified distributions will be subject to income tax and a 10% federal penalty tax. 

Contributions to a Coverdell ESA aren’t tax deductible, but the account accumulates on a tax-deferred basis. Withdrawals are not taxed, as they are used for qualified education expenses. Contributions may be made until the account beneficiary turns 18. The money must be withdrawn when the beneficiary turns 30, or taxes and penalties may occur.

Roth IRA contributions are phased out for taxpayers with adjusted gross incomes (AGIs) above a certain amount. To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a 5-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal can also be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner’s death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.