NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — If you haven't already started saving for college for your kids yet, there is a new reason to start a 529 savings plan for your child's education.
Until now, funds in a 529 had to be used for education expenses, but that's changing.
Starting this year, families can roll unused money from a 529 into a Roth IRA, or individual retirement account, tax free after 15 years.
That means if a child doesn't put that savings to use, you have a little extra for retirement.
Until now, that was one of the biggest issues parents had with creating one of these accounts, because if their child didn't use all the money or say they got a full scholarship the money would go unused.
Now, there is a limit.
Parents can only roll over up to $35,000 into a Roth IRA for themselves, or their child.
Experts say if someone in their mid-20s put $35,000 in a Roth IRA and left it alone, that could turn into close to one million dollars in about 40 years.
Not bad.
This is a beautiful story of chosen family, proving a father figure doesn't have to have biology in common to make a difference in a child's life. The story of De'Andre and Alex will remind you that our relationships help determine the course of our lives. And that being supportive of someone - through a meal, a shared experience or even swim lessons can make all the difference.
- Rebecca Schleicher
