College Planning

Invest in Your Child’s Future Without Sacrificing Your Own

College Planning Advisors in Orange County & Beyond

Paying for higher education is one of the biggest financial concerns for families today. At Montage Wealth Advisors, we help parents and grandparents across Orange County and beyond develop strategies to save for education while still keeping retirement and other goals on track. Our fiduciary approach helping to ensure recommendations are objective, cost-conscious, and tailored to your family’s needs. By integrating college savings into your broader financial plan, we help make education more affordable without compromising your financial security.

A man with a backpack is standing next to a lake in the woods.

Planning Ahead for Education Costs

Comprehensive College Planning Services

Education is an investment in the future—but without a strategy, it can put pressure on your financial wellbeing. We help families prepare with tax-smart, flexible, and achievable plans.

529 College Savings Plans

Tax-advantaged accounts that allow your savings to grow while providing flexibility in how funds are used.

Custodial & Trust Accounts

Options for grandparents or parents who want to contribute to a child’s future while maintaining control over assets.

Balancing College & Retirement Goals

Helping you save for education without jeopardizing your long-term financial security.

Education Cost Projections

Tools and planning strategies to estimate future expenses and align them with your overall financial plan.

Financial Aid & FAFSA Guidance

Assistance in understanding the financial aid process and how your savings may affect eligibility.

Answers for Parents & Grandparents

Frequently Asked Questions About College Planning

  • How much should I save for my child’s education?

    The amount depends on the type of school, your family goals, and whether you expect to cover part or all of the costs. We help you estimate expenses and create a realistic savings strategy.

  • What’s the benefit of a 529 plan?

    A 529 plan allows contributions to grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals for qualified education expenses are tax-free. They also provide flexibility if your child chooses a different path or doesn’t use all the funds.

  • Can grandparents open or contribute to college savings plans?

    Yes. Grandparents can open their own 529 accounts or contribute to an existing one. We can guide you on the best structure to maximize benefits for both you and your grandchild.

  • How does saving for college affect financial aid?

    Savings can impact eligibility, but the type of account and ownership structure matter. We’ll help you understand the balance between saving enough and maintaining aid opportunities.

  • What if my child doesn’t use all the money saved?

    529 funds can be transferred to another child or even used for graduate school. New rules also allow some unused funds to be rolled into a Roth IRA under certain conditions.

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses associated with municipal fund securities before investing. This information is found in the issuer’s official statement and should be read carefully before investing. Investors should also consider whether the investor’s or beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits available only from that state’s 529 Plan. Any state-based benefit should be one of many appropriately weighted factors in making an investment decision. The investor should consult their financial or tax advisor before investing in any state’s 529 Plan.