Supporting a child’s education is one of the most meaningful investments you can make — and one of the most rewarding parts of building a strong financial plan. But with the cost of higher education continuing to rise, getting there takes more than good intentions. It takes an early start and a smart strategy.

At Union Strategic Advisors, we help you navigate the full range of education funding options — analyzing tax benefits, ownership structures, contribution limits, and risk so you can make confident, informed decisions. Whether you’re saving for a newborn’s college years or getting a later start, we’ll help you find the right path forward.

A 529 plan is one of the most powerful tools available for education funding — and one of the most flexible. When you invest in a student’s future through a 529, you’re not just helping make higher education possible. You’re potentially creating a legacy of learning that can be passed down for generations.

Contributions to a 529 plan grow tax-deferred and can be withdrawn tax-free when used for qualified education expenses.* Generous contribution limits apply regardless of income level, and together we’ll choose an investment strategy that fits your timeline, your goals, and the student you’re investing in.

UGMA and UTMA custodial accounts weren’t designed exclusively for education savings, but they offer distinct advantages worth considering — including a broad range of investment options, limited tax benefits, and a straightforward way to transfer assets to a child without the cost of establishing a formal trust.

That said, there are important trade-offs. Contributions are irrevocable, and parents relinquish control of the funds when the child reaches adulthood — typically between ages 18 and 21, depending on the state. We’ll help you weigh these considerations carefully and determine whether a custodial account makes sense as part of your overall education funding strategy.