529 Plans, College Costs & Smart Education Savings | Investment Friday 211

As back-to-school season ramps up, many families are facing the reality of college costs—and wondering how best to prepare. In this solo episode, Hannah Chapman, CFP®, APMA®, CRPC®, breaks down the ins and outs of 529 plans, why they matter, and how they fit into long-term financial planning. Hannah also touches on current market updates, including the S&P 500 hitting new highs, interest rate expectations, and what to watch for in the coming weeks. If you've ever wondered how to save for your child's education (or what happens if they don't use all the funds), this episode is packed with answers. Topics we cover in this episode: What happens when the market hits new highs? What exactly is a 529 plan, and how does it work? Should the parent or the child own the 529 account? How do 529 plans affect FAFSA and financial aid? What can you do with leftover funds after college? How can unused 529 money be rolled into a Roth IRA? What other options exist for private school, scholarships, or non-education use? Whether you're a parent preparing for college expenses, a grandparent looking to contribute, or simply curious about the smartest way to plan for the future, this episode will help you understand how 529 plans fit into your financial toolkit. Connect with Hannah here: X² Wealth Planning Website: https://x2wealthplanning.com/ Expansive CEO: https://expansiveceo.com/ Hannah's Website: https://hannahrchapman.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannah.chapman.cfp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hannahchapmanfinancialadvisor/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahrchapman/