What you need to know about 529s.
Defining 529s
A 529 plan is a type of investment account you can use to save for qualified education expenses. 529 plans are usually sponsored by states, and College Savings Iowa is a 529 plan established and sponsored by the State of Iowa.
The term 529 comes from Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, which specifies the tax advantages available to those saving in a 529 plan. The investments grow with federally tax-deferred earnings, and distributions are tax free when used to pay for qualified education expenses.
If you’re an Iowa taxpayer, College Savings Iowa also has additional tax benefits.
Terms to Know
Participant: The adult opening a College Savings Iowa account. This can be just about anybody, including parents, grandparents, other relatives and friends. The Participant will also receive the state tax deduction if they are an Iowa taxpayer. Participants do not have to live in Iowa, but they must be at least 18 years old, have a valid U.S. Social Security number or Taxpayer Identification Number and a physical address that is not a PO Box.
Beneficiary: The future student, or person the College Savings Iowa account is opened for. This can be a child, grandchild, friend or even the Participant themselves. Beneficiaries do not have to live in Iowa; the only rule is they must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien with a valid Social Security number or other Taxpayer Identification Number.
Qualified Education Expense: Your account can be used for any purpose. However, for your withdrawals to be considered federally tax-free, the money must be used for qualified education expenses. This includes tuition, room and board, computers, textbooks and more at any eligible education institution in the U.S. or abroad. Learn more on our Qualified Expenses page.
Program Description: Outlines the investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses and other important information about College Savings Iowa. Read and consider it carefully before investing.