Can a 529 Plan Pay for Preschool?
Background
529 college savings plans were originally created to help families save for post-secondary education or college. The idea behind these plans is to save and invest for college over the years and as long as money is withdrawn for “qualified educational expenses”, no taxes are owed. That was expanded by the Tax Cuts and Jobs act of 2017. For the first time, families were able to use 529 money for private school for K-12.
Can 529 plans pay for private preschool
The expanded provisions of 529 plans do not apply to preschool, pre-K, or any other educational opportunities that happens before kindergarten. The revised rules are very specific to K-12 as the only “pre-college” exception. Unfortunately, tuition and fees for private preschool are not included.
Can 529 plans pay for daycare?
Unfortunately, the answer here is still no.
Can 529 plans pay for Montessori schools?
No, this does not qualify.
Can 529 plans pay for a parenting co-op that facilitates preschool?
No, this does not qualify.
Can 529 plans pay for church preschool?
No, this does not qualify.
A little known benefit at work can pay for daycare or preschool
What if I want to withdraw money from a 529 anyway for preschool?
You can do that, but there’s a big downside. First, you’ll owe the IRS income (federal) tax on the money you take out of your child's 529 account. On top of that, you’ll face an additional 10% penalty. Also, depending on your state, you could have additional taxes at the state level. It can be done, but the amount taken by the government will be severe. On top of all that, keep in mind that by withdrawing money for preschool and facing the penalties, fewer dollars will be available later on for college.
"All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children." Isiah 54:13 ESV
Can you use an FSA to pay for preschool?
What should we do instead to pay for preschool?
Good for you on making your child’s education a priority. That priority will need a place in your family's spending and budget. Preschools have a variety of payment arrangements. Some are even weekly. Carve out a spot in your budget for this endeavor. If it’s a stretch, consider shopping around for other preschools. Some churches that run their own preschool will offer a discount to their own members. Others, sometimes offer “scholarships” when a family is in need. Keep in mind that any definition of “in-need” is completely up to the individual preschool. It might also be worth checking to see if you employer offers a dependent care FSA. These accounts can sometimes be used to pay for preschool.
21 Money Questions to Ask before Choosing a Preschool
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