09/03/2025

Using 529 Plans for Certification and Training

Here are some answers to questions you might have

I’ve been trying to educate credentialing agencies on the impact of the recent expansion of 529 savings plans on credentials, but I’m realizing that many individuals lack familiarity with 529 plans. So, here’s a little primer, from the personal rather than organizational perspective.

A 529 Plan is a savings account designed to help pay for education and career training. You (or your family) put money into the account, and it grows tax-free. When you use the money for approved education costs, you don’t pay taxes on the withdrawal. Additionally, many states offer further tax advantages. For example, in my home state of Indiana, you can claim a tax credit of 20% of each annual contribution (up to a limit). Having paid for most of my two kids’ bachelor's and my own master's through 529 plans, that’s some nice cash saved.

Here are some answers to questions you might have.

Please select this link to read the complete article from LinkedIn.