3. Where do I save the money?
It’s hard to argue against using a 529 account for at least some portion of the money you’re saving for college. There are two options available: prepaid tuition and college saving plans. Such plans can offer tax benefits. But remember that if you withdraw money from these accounts for something other than education, there may be penalties and fees. To get a sense of what’s available, here’s a tool for helping you evaluate the different 529 plans.
No matter what path you select, one of the most important and valuable parts of the process might be the conversations you have with your children. Besides helping prepare them for college, you’re helping them learn how to set and achieve their financial goals. And that’s an education they can always use.