White Coat Investor Podcast

WCI #432: 529s and Spending for College

24 snips
Aug 14, 2025
Discover the ins and outs of 529 accounts, from smart spending strategies to tax implications. Learn how to manage education costs effectively while balancing loans and savings. Hear insights on navigating student loans as payment pauses end. One listener shares an inspiring effort to boost financial literacy among dental students. Plus, find out how political influences can impact personal finance planning. It's all about simplifying finances for long-term success and building wealth.
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ADVICE

Record 529 Withdrawals Immediately

  • When a student has a 529-eligible expense, pay them and immediately withdraw the exact amount from the 529 to your bank account.
  • Save the receipt and label it with date and beneficiary to support the tax-free withdrawal in case of audit.
ANECDOTE

Personal 529 Spending System

  • James Dahle manages eight 529s for nieces, nephews, and his children and actively spends them down as students incur eligible expenses.
  • He logs transfers, collects emailed receipts, and files them labeled for tax year audits.
ADVICE

Match Withdrawals To Same-Year Receipts

  • You must match every 529 withdrawal to receipts for expenses incurred in the same tax year or face taxes and penalties.
  • It's simplest to withdraw when the expense occurs rather than waiting until year-end.
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