(November 24, 2020) - We are in the home stretch of a wild and chaotic 2020. Soon we will gather for the holidays with family and friends, amid one of the most challenging times of our lives. Although many things look and feel harder this year, shopping for the holidays doesn’t have to be. Try a new gift giving approach this year. Your children or grandchildren will be pursuing higher education before you know it. Consider giving the gift of education. Open a 529 account or add to an existing account with Washington College Savings plans (WA529).
Did you know friends and family can contribute to your 529 account? Gift contributions towards a child’s college savings make the perfect gift for holidays, special occasions, birthdays, baby showers and many other milestones. Inviting others to contribute provides them an opportunity to give a lifelong gift. WA529 funds can be used at colleges, universities and technical schools across the country, and even abroad. Contributions grow tax free when they are used for qualified education expenses
WA529 provides flexible options that help you save for future education costs. The key to being prepared is to start saving early, make regular contributions, and choose a savings option that will meet your goals. Every family is different, and no single approach is a perfect fit. With WA529, families can choose between the Guaranteed Education Tuition (GET) Program, and the DreamAhead College Investment Plan. To learn the benefits of each program, or see how to get started, visit our Get Started page.
Education is truly a gift that lasts a lifetime, so consider skipping one new toy or gift card this holiday season. (Half the time children are more interested in the packaging anyway.) Let WA529 help you make your 2020 holiday shopping a little easier by visiting our gifting page.