Every dollar saved for college is a dollar you won't have to borrow. But even if you can save, what's the best way to put money aside for higher education? Amy and Mike invited financial expert Joanne Dashiell to explore new ways to use your 529 plan.

What are five things you will learn in this episode?

1. What exactly is a 529 plan, and how does it work?

2. Can you talk about the two different types of 529 plans, savings and prepaid?

3. What are some of the tax advantages associated with using a 529 plan?

4. How have 2025 policy changes expanded 529 plan flexibility?

5. What is the one message you hope families take away about saving for college?

MEET OUR GUEST

Joanne Dashiell serves as Chief Marketing Officer at CollegeWell and Private College 529 Plan. In her current role, Joanne is responsible for leading all marketing efforts across multiple audiences and channels for CollegeWell. She brings over 20 years of higher education experience and a passion for helping families and students make their college dreams an affordable reality. Through her varied roles, Joanne has helped tens of thousands of families prepare for college by developing education and outreach programs for audiences of all ages.

As an industry expert, Joanne has delivered presentations throughout the country at national, regional, and state conferences. She serves as a resource for secondary and post-secondary professionals, providing guidance on financial aid regulations and trends in college enrollment and financing. Joanne's higher education career began in 2001, during which she spent several years working in financial aid at both public and private institutions, as well as in various roles at MEFA, ASA, and the Higher Education Assistance Group.

Joanne can be reached at [email protected].

LINKS

Can 529 Funds Be Used to Pay for Test Prep?

Private College 529 Plan | What is a 529 Plan?

Education Savings Vehicles: Know Your Options

RELATED EPISODES

529 COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS

THE ROLE OF TEST SCORES IN COLLEGE MERIT AID

BUSTING MYTHS ABOUT HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE