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Are my 529 plan contributions subject to federal gift tax?

529 plan contributions are considered to be completed gifts to the beneficiary, and may be subject to federal gift tax. In 2025, the annual federal exclusion from gift taxes is $19,000 for a single individual or $38,000 for a married couple electing to split gifts). 

Under a special rule for 529 plans, you can elect to treat a contribution up to $95,000 (or $190,000 for a married couple) as if you had applied it over a 5-year period. This is sometimes referred to as “superfunding". Once this election is made, if the contributor makes any additional gifts to the same beneficiary in the same or the next four years, such gifts are subject to gift or generation-skipping transfer taxes in the calendar year of the gift. However, any excess gifts may be applied against the contributor’s lifetime gift tax exemption.

Please note, Wealthfront does not provide tax advice, and you should you consult your tax advisor for more information.

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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.