The Grandparent Playbook: Launching the Next Generation

On this episode of Retirement Success, hosts Steve and Elizabeth Holland are joined by Todd M.J. Schnitt to discuss the "Education Launchpad." With 70% of grandparents now providing financial support to their families, the team breaks down how to gift money effectively while navigating rising college costs and the complexities of "unemployment" that can last 30 years in retirement.Key Discussion PointsThe 529 Strategy Shift: Discover how new FAFSA rules have made grandparent-owned 529 plans more powerful than ever, and how "super-funding" can allow a couple to move up to $190,000 into a plan tax-free in a single year.The Custodial Account Warning: Elizabeth shares a personal story about the "majority age" trap of UTMA/UGMA accounts, where major custodians can legally "fire" the grandparent from the account the moment the grandchild turns 21.The McDonald’s Roth IRA: Learn why a simple summer job is the ultimate "set it and forget it" legacy move, potentially turning a few thousand dollars of summer earnings into $90,000 of tax-free retirement wealth for a grandchild.Financial Wisdom & The "Sandwich Tax": Steve discusses the "Two Tens for a Five" lesson and why teaching grandchildren about taxes through everyday life (like taking a slice of their "pie") leads to better credit scores and lower debt in adulthood.The 59.5 Countdown: In the listener corner, the Hollands explain why the IRS "always knows" if you touch your money even one month early and how to avoid the 10% "early exit" penalty.Whether you are looking to fund a college education or simply want to ensure your hard-earned wisdom outlasts your wealth, this episode provides a roadmap for purposeful gifting.Contact The Holland Group Retirement Wealth Advisors for a complimentary, no-obligation review by calling (727) 295-3451, or visit AskTheHollands.com to schedule a discovery call at your convenience.