Save more for college through the tax advantages of a 529 savings plan

Save more for college through the tax advantages of a 529 savings planWith kids back in school, it’s a good time for parents (and grandparents) to think about college funding. One option, which can be especially beneficial if the children in question still have many years until they’ll be starting their higher education, is a Section 529 plan.

A “back door” Roth IRA can benefit higher-income taxpayers

A “back door” Roth IRA can benefit higher-income taxpayersA potential downside of tax-deferred saving through a traditional retirement plan is that you’ll have to pay taxes when you make withdrawals at retirement. Roth plans, on the other hand, allow tax-free distributions; the tradeoff is that contributions to these plans don’t reduce your current-year taxable income.

2016 higher-education breaks can save your family taxes

2016 higher-education breaks can save your family taxesWas a college student in your family last year? Or were you a student yourself? You may be eligible for some valuable tax breaks on your 2016 return. To max out your higher education breaks, you need to see which ones you’re eligible for and then claim the one(s) that will provide the greatest benefit. In most cases you can take only one break per student, and, for some breaks, only one per tax return.