What is a 529 college savings plan?

A 529 college savings plan is a tax-advantaged investment account designed to help families save for future education costs. Named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, these plans are sponsored by states and offer significant tax benefits when funds are used for qualified education expenses. Think of it as a special savings account … Read more

How do you start a 529 plan?

Starting a 529 plan is one of the smartest ways to save for education expenses. The process is straightforward: choose a plan, open an account, name a beneficiary, and make a contribution. You can do it all online in about 15 minutes, and you don’t need a financial advisor to get started. In this guide, … Read more

How much does financial aid cover?

Financial aid covers a significant portion of college costs, but the exact amount depends on your family’s finances, the school’s cost, and the types of aid you receive. On average, financial aid covers about 70% of college costs for students who qualify, but this number varies widely. The key is understanding how aid is calculated … Read more

Is financial aid paused?

If you’ve been asking, “is financial aid paused?” you’re not alone. As of August 2026, federal financial aid is not paused, but there have been significant delays and changes in how aid is processed. This article breaks down what’s happening, what it means for you, and how to stay on track. Why Does It Feel … Read more

When is the financial aid deadline?

The financial aid deadline for most students is June 30, 2027, for the 2027-2028 school year. However, many states and colleges set earlier deadlines, often between January and March 2027. To get the most aid, you should apply as soon as possible after October 1, 2026, when the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) … Read more

Where to open a 529 plan?

If you’re saving for a child’s college education, you may be wondering where to open a 529 plan. The answer depends on your state, your investment preferences, and the fees you’re willing to pay. Most families open a 529 plan directly through their own state’s program, but you can also choose plans from other states … Read more

What is a 529 plan for college?

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings account designed specifically to help families pay for education costs. Named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, this state-sponsored plan lets your money grow tax-free when used for qualified expenses like tuition, room and board, and books. Think of it as a powerful tool that turns … Read more

How to download FAFSA submission summary?

To download your FAFSA submission summary, log in to the official FAFSA website with your FSA ID, go to the “My FAFSA” page, and select “View or Print your FAFSA” from the menu. This will open a PDF version of your submission summary, which you can save to your device or print. The process takes … Read more

How to fill out the FAFSA?

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to getting financial aid for college or career school. This form determines your eligibility for federal grants, work-study, and loans, as well as many state and school-based aid programs. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to fill out the FAFSA, with … Read more

Can i still apply for FAFSA?

Yes, you can still apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for the current academic year. The federal deadline for the 2025-2026 school year is June 30, 2026, and the application for the 2026-2027 year opens on October 1, 2026. Even if you missed earlier state or college deadlines, submitting a FAFSA as … Read more