Whether the funds are for college or vocational studies, she said, "529 plans are better now than they've ever been before and they're more flexible." "There are three pretty significant changes this year," said Vivian Tsai, senior director of education savings at TIAA and chair emeritus for the College Savings Foundation, a non-profit that provides public policy support for 529 plans. Financial experts and plan investors agree that 529 college savings plans are a smart choice for many. Tax deductions or credits for contributionsEven before recent changes, there were already many advantages to a 529 plan. A few states also offer additional benefits, such as scholarships or matching grants, to their residents if they invest in their home state's 529 plan.

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Persons: Vivian Tsai, New Roth, beneficiary's Roth, Chris Lynch, they're, " Lynch Organizations: College Savings Foundation, Financial, Finance, CNBC, Federal