Can I open more than one account in the name of the same student?
Yes. You can open multiple accounts for the same student, and more than one person can contribute to a college savings plan for the same beneficiary. However, a state's maximum contribution limit would limit the total amount that may be invested for a single beneficiary under that state's program, regardless of how many accounts are held in the beneficiary's name.

Do 529 plans vary from state to state?
Yes. Each state with an existing plan offers various investment options specifically designed to save for education expenses. Determining which plan to invest in will depend on individual circumstances, taking into account several factors associated with the programs, such as fees, expenses, investment options, and performance. In addition, investing in the plan offered by an individual's own state might lower that individual's state income tax burden, depending on the laws of the state. Participants may transfer 529 assets from one state's plan to another, tax-free, once every 12 months, or more often if there is also a change to the account's beneficiary.

Can I have more than one student in a single account?
No. When you invest in a college savings plan or prepaid plan you are investing on behalf of a designated individual beneficiary. You can transfer your account to any member of the beneficiary's family, as defined by the Internal Revenue Service, without incurring any taxes or penalties.

When can a 529 plan be opened?
The answer depends on the type of 529 plan being opened. A college savings plan generally can be opened anytime after a child is born. Most prepaid tuition plans, however, have a set enrollment period established by the state during which new accounts may be opened and have age limits for the beneficiary.

Where can 529 college savings plan withdrawals be used?
Withdrawals from 529 savings plans can be used to pay for qualified higher education expenses at any college, university, vocational school, or other accredited postsecondary educational institution eligible to participate in a student aid program administered by the Department of Education. This includes virtually all accredited public, nonprofit, and privately owned profit-making postsecondary institutions.