QTP Final Considerations: Coordinating 529 Plans with Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Tax Credits
Learn how to coordinate your 529 plan with financial aid, scholarships, and education tax credits to avoid costly mistakes and maximize your college funding strategy.
Special Situations in QTPs: What to Do with Leftover Funds and Family Transfers
Wondering what to do with leftover 529 plan funds? This guide explores smart options like Roth IRA rollovers, beneficiary transfers, and non-college uses—key strategies in modern college financial planning.
Managing QTPs: Tax Strategies and Pitfalls Every Family Should Know
Learn how to manage 529 plan distributions with tax efficiency. This guide covers QTP contribution rules, qualified expenses, 1099-Q forms, and common pitfalls in college financial planning.
How QTPs Work: Contributions, Investments, and Distributions
Learn how to maximize your 529 plan with smart contribution strategies, investment options, and tax-free distributions. This guide supports your college financial planning and saving for college goals.
529 Showdown: Prepaid Tuition vs. College Savings Plans—Which Is Right for Your Family?
Compare prepaid tuition and college savings 529 plans in this college planning guide. Learn how each option supports your family’s college financial planning, saving for college, and long-term funding goals.
How Much Will College Really Cost Your Family? Decoding the EFC Formula
Learn how the Student Aid Index (formerly EFC) impacts your financial aid eligibility and discover smart college planning tips to balance education costs with your retirement goals.
Setting SMART Financial Goals for Families Saving for College and Retirement
SMART financial goals = stress-free college planning AND retirement savings. Learn how to create clear, actionable goals for your family.
The Hidden Costs of Student Loans Parents Should Know About
College planning requires more than just securing student loans—hidden costs like interest, origination fees, and deferred payments can add up fast. This guide breaks down these expenses and offers proactive strategies to keep your financial future on track while funding your student’s education
FAFSA Appeals and Estimating College Costs: Two Key Steps to Maximizing Financial Aid
Learn how to appeal FAFSA financial aid decisions and accurately estimate college costs. Maximize your financial aid and budget smarter with these practical tips.
Should Parents Co-Sign Student Loans? What to Consider Before Signing
Co-signing a student loan can feel like a no-brainer for college planning —but is it? Discover the risks, benefits, and alternatives before you sign.
How to Avoid Parent PLUS Loan Pitfalls While Covering College Costs
Parent PLUS loans can be a valuable tool for college planning, but they come with risks. Learn how to borrow wisely and avoid financial pitfalls.
Maximizing Tax Deductions for College and Retirement in 2025
Maximizing tax deductions for college planning and retirement planning doesn’t have to be complicated. Learn the strategies to save thousands in 2025.
Case Study: How the Jones Family Boosted Their Financial Aid Package with Three Simple Strategies
Discover how strategic college planning helped the Jones family secure $15,000 in additional financial aid for college. Learn key strategies like early FAFSA filing, professional judgment appeals, and asset repositioning to optimize your family's financial future.
Should You Consider Private Loans? A Practical Guide for Families
Learn when private loans make sense for college funding, their pros and cons, and smart tips for borrowing responsibly.
Top 3 Financial Aid Mistakes Families Make—and How to Avoid Them
Discover the top 3 financial aid mistakes families make and how to avoid them. Maximize your FAFSA results with these practical tips!
FAFSA Priority Deadlines: Why Timing Could Save Your Family Thousands
Learn how FAFSA priority deadlines impact your financial aid eligibility. Get actionable tips and resources to file early and maximize your aid
How to Conduct a Financial Check-Up Before Tax Season
Prepare for tax season with a financial check-up! Learn how to maximize tax deductions, optimize savings, and plan for college and retirement.
529 Plans vs. Retirement Accounts: Which Should You Tap for College Expenses?
Should you use a 529 plan or tap into retirement accounts to pay for college? Learn the pros and cons of each strategy and make a smart choice for your family’s future.
5 Myths About Saving for Both College and Retirement
Debunk common myths about saving for college and retirement in this insightful guide. Learn how to balance both goals with strategic planning, maximize flexibility with 529 plans, and prioritize your financial future without unnecessary stress.
8 Legal Documents Parents and College Students Should Sign
Preparing your college-bound child for college involves more than thinking through college financial planning. Learn about FERPA waivers, HIPAA forms, powers of attorney, and more to ensure peace of mind during emergencies. Get tips for securing their belongings and managing healthcare needs before they head off to college.