What is a 529 plan?

A 529 savings plan helps families invest now for future college and career education expenses.

Tens of thousands of Pennsylvania families just like yours have used a PA 529 account to reach their savings goals. Check out our overview video to learn more about the features and benefits of the PA 529 College and Career Savings Program.

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Why choose a PA 529 plan?

PA 529 offers two plan options, which provide tax benefits, flexible savings options and the ability to pay for a wide range of education expenses.

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Who can contribute?

Anyone -- parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, family friends -- can contribute to a PA 529 plan. Instead of traditional gifts, make a gift toward their future with Ugift.

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What if I live out of state?

Non-Pennsylvania residents can establish a PA 529 Investment Plan (IP) account. If either you or the beneficiary lives in Pennsylvania, you may be able to open a PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (GSP) account. See plan disclosures for details.

Choose Your Savings Pathway

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Guaranteed Savings Plan (GSP)

A tax-advantaged, lower-risk plan that helps you save based on today's college tuition costs. The account holder or beneficiary must be a Pennsylvania resident.

More about the GSP
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Investment Plan (IP)

A tax-advantaged investment plan with options ranging from conservative to balanced to aggressive, plus target enrollment portfolios. How you invest is up to you.

More about the IP
Not sure which plan is right for you?

Look at each plan side-by-side to determine which is right for your family.

Compare Plans
How much should I save?

They're just learning how to walk, so college might seem like a lifetime away. Get an early start on a rewarding finish and put dreams of postsecondary education within their reach. How much you should save depends on the student's goals, and a PA 529 account makes it easy with no minimum contributions to fit most family budgets.

Rising college costs: Saving vs. borrowing

Postsecondary education is getting more expensive, so you need to start saving early. Every dollar you save today means less they'll need to borrow and pay back later. Even if you only save a little, starting small and starting early will provide the boost they will need.

The value of an education

Postsecondary education costs a lot -- but it pays off. During their working lives, college graduates earn more than those without a degree and are less likely to face unemployment. PA 529 plans can be used for career or vocational education so your child can pursue the education or training they need to succeed.

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Savings Calculator

Use our savings calculator to estimate their future education costs.

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“One of the easiest and quickest ways to save for my children's college education. I used a combination of the guaranteed and investment account options.”

Francis L., dad of 2, Landenberg, PA