What is a key characteristic of a 529 savings plan?

A 529 savings plan is designed specifically to encourage saving for future education expenses. One of its key characteristics is the tax advantages it offers. Contributions to a 529 plan grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free at the federal level as long as the funds are used for qualified education expenses, such as tuition, fees, room and board, and other related costs.

These tax benefits make 529 plans an attractive option for saving for college or other educational costs, as they allow individuals to maximize the amount of money available for educational purposes. The plan can also offer state tax benefits, depending on the state in which it was established. This combination of tax savings and flexibility in choosing educational institutions makes 529 plans a popular choice among families planning for education expenses.