Question: What happens to my 529 plan if my child wants to postpone going to college for a year or two after high school?

Answer :

A delay of 1 or 2 years shouldn't matter, but if your child postpones college indefinitely, you should read the details of the 529 plan. Look to see if the plan you own (or are considering) has any time limits. Most prepaid tuition plans require that the funds in the plan be paid out within 10 years of the date the beneficiary is scheduled to attend college. College savings plans generally have no such requirement, and in most states, money in the account can be left indefinitely. Note: Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses associated with 529 plans before investing. More information about 529 plans is available in each issuer's official statement, which should be read carefully before investing. Also, before investing, consider whether your state offers a 529 plan that provides residents with favorable state tax benefits.