A 529 plan is a college savings account that offers significant tax advantages. If saving for your child's education is a priority, a 529 plan can be an excellent tool to help you achieve that goal. The money you put into the account is invested and grows tax-free over time, and when it's time for your child to go to college, you can withdraw the funds tax-free to pay for their education. However, there are several factors to consider before opening a 529 plan. You need to ensure you have extra money to set aside for college, as there are penalties for withdrawing the money for non-educational purposes. You also need to consider the fees associated with the plan, as high fees can negate the tax advantages. Lastly, you need to choose the right plan for you, considering the specific tax advantages offered by your state. While 529 plans are a great way to save for education, they are not the only option. Daffy, a not-for-profit community built around a modern platform for giving, offers a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) that can also be a great tool for saving and investing. With Daffy, you can easily donate to almost every US public charity, track tax-deductible contributions, and access donation receipts all in one place. Daffy waives all membership fees for members with less than $100 in their fund, making it an accessible and affordable option for many families. Whether you choose a 529 plan or a DAF like Daffy, the key is to start saving and investing early. The sooner you start, the more time your money has to grow, helping you reach your financial goals for your child's education.