Over the past decade, tuition and room/board at 4-year public universities have risen nearly 50%.

Most need-based financial aid comes in the form of student loans.

You can participate in almost any 529 plan across the country.

here are no income limitations on a person’s ability to contribute to an account.

Many states offer an income tax deduction or credit based on your contributions into a 529 plan.

529 plans can be used to pay for tuition, room and board, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for enrollment.

529 plans come in two varieties: college savings plans and prepaid tuition plans.

Your 529 plan contribution qualifies for the $14,000 annual gift tax exclusion.

Some states offer matching grants and other benefits to participants in its 529 plan.

The account owner of a 529 plan maintains control over the use of the account.