This podcast is sponsored by Learning Quest.

As parents, we all want to set our children up for success—but when it comes to planning for their education, the options can feel overwhelming. One powerful tool to consider is a 529 account, which allows you to invest in your child’s future education no matter what path they choose.

In this episode, we’re joined by Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson, an expert on 529 programs and the Kansas Learning Quest® plan. He shares insights on how families can make the most of these accounts and confidently plan for their children’s educational journeys.

Topics we cover include:

What a 529 plan is, along with its uses and key benefits

The best time to open a 529 account

Who can contribute to a 529 plan and contribution limits

Guidance on setting up a 529 account

Tune in for an informative conversation designed to help you better understand 529 plans and how they can support your child’s educational future.

 

Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson

Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson was born and raised on a cattle and grain farm near Assaria, Kansas.

After graduating from Southeast Saline High School, Steven went on to study Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University, where he was elected Student Body President and graduated with honors. Steven began his career in the financial services sector while remaining involved in the family farm. He continued his education at the University of Chicago where he received a Masters in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance and business policy.

Steven’s financially-focused education was a valued tool in the financial services sector when he led the development of an asset allocation software program that calculated the highest return of investment for a particular need. His interest and expertise in financial issues during the economic downturn of 2008-09 was a catalyst in his decision to enter public service. Steven ran for the state legislature and was elected in 2010. His financial and agricultural background led to committee appointments including Chairman of the Tax Committee, Chairman of Insurance and Pensions Committee, and a member of committees including Appropriations and Agriculture and Natural Resources. Steven was elected the state’s 42nd state treasurer in 2022 and assumed office on January 9, 2023.

 

Before investing, carefully consider the plan's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This information and more about the plan can be found in the Learning Quest Handbook, available by contacting American Century Investment Services, Inc., Distributor, at 1-800-579-2203, and should be read carefully before investing. If you are not a Kansas taxpayer, consider before investing whether the beneficiary's or your home state offers a 529 Plan that provides its taxpayers with state tax and other benefits not available through this plan.

Notice: Accounts established under Learning Quest and their earnings are neither insured nor guaranteed by the state of Kansas, the Kansas State Treasurer or American Century. Administered by the Kansas State Treasurer, Steven Johnson.

Managed by American Century Investment Management, Inc.

The availability of tax or other state benefits (such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors) may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements, such as residency, purpose for or timing of distributions, or other factors.

As with any investment, it is possible to lose money by investing in this plan. The value of your Learning Quest account may fluctuate, and it is possible for the value of your account to be less than the amount you invested.

The earnings portion of non-qualified withdrawals is subject to federal and state income taxes and a 10% federal penalty.

Please consult your tax advisor for more detailed information regarding the Roth IRA or for advice regarding your individual situation....