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What is a 529 plan?

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged way to save and invest for higher education expenses at colleges, graduate schools, community colleges and certain technical or vocational schools. It is named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, which establishes and regulates these plans. 529 college savings accounts have a number of tax-efficient benefits. Investments in a 529 plan account grow federal income tax-deferred and can be withdrawn federal income tax free when the funds are used to pay for qualified higher education expenses. Families can also fund a 529 plan using up to 5 years of gift-tax exemptions (currently $70,000 or $140,000 for married couples filing a joint return) at once to maximize the value of compound growth. Some states also provide state income tax deductions or credits for 529 plan contributions.

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For more information about the Wealthfront 529 College Savings Plan (the “Plan”), download the Plan Description and Participation Agreement or request one by calling
844-995-8437 or emailing support@wealthfront.com. Investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information are included in the Plan Description and Participation Agreement; please read and consider it carefully before investing. An investment in the Plan is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any federal or state government or agency. You could lose all or portion of your investment. Wealthfront Brokerage Corporation serves as the distributor and the underwriter of the Plan.

Before you invest, consider whether your or the beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s qualified tuition program

The Plan is administered by the Board of Trustees of the College Savings Plans of Nevada (the “Board”), chaired by the Nevada State Treasurer. Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, Inc. (“ABD”) serves as the Program Manager.

Earnings on nonqualified withdrawals are subject to federal income tax and may be subject to a 10 percent federal tax penalty, as well as state and local income taxes. The availability of tax and other benefits may be contingent on meeting other requirements.

The information contained is provided for general informational purposes, and should not be construed as investment advice. Nothing should be construed as tax advice, solicitation or offer, or recommendation, to buy or sell any security. Financial advisory services are only provided to investors who become Wealthfront clients. This article is not intended as tax advice, and Wealthfront does not represent in any manner that the tax consequences described here will be obtained or will result in any particular tax consequence.