Question: What happens if I open a 529 plan in one state and then move to another state?

Answer :

Essentially nothing. You can leave the account assets in your former state's plan with no penalty. Alternatively, you can roll the assets over from your old state's 529 plan to your new state's plan if both plans allow it. Check the details of each plan carefully before you start any transfers. You can keep the same beneficiary when you do the rollover. But the rollover does bring with it a restriction: You can roll the assets over from one 529 plan to another only once every 12 months. If you want to immediately get out of the 529 plan you're in now and avoid this restriction, you'll need to change the account beneficiary when you request the transfer. Some 529 plans also require a minimum time period, such as one year, before withdrawals (including rollovers) can be made from an account for any reason. Again, check both plans to make sure there are no withdrawal limitations. One advantage of a rollover is that you can reallocate your 529 funds to a different investment portfolio (or portfolios) when you join the new plan. So, you might be able to invest more or less aggressively, depending on your personal situation and market factors. 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.