Alec Walker, EVP of Financial Planning at Crestmont Private Wealth discusses strategies for college savings during the back-to-school season. Alec covers the rising costs of college, the benefits and drawbacks of 529 plans, recent legislative changes, multi-generational planning, and tips for managing student debt. He also shares personal stories and practical advice for families planning for education expenses.

Timeline:

• 00:00 – Introduction & Host Welcome
• 00:30 – Back-to-School Season & College Savings Overview
• 00:52 – Analyzing College Funding Goals
• 01:12 – The True Cost of College Today & in the Future
• 02:09 – Inflation and Projected College Costs
• 02:32 – Why Start Saving Early?
• 02:59 – Ways to Save for College: Savings, Investments, 529 Plans
• 03:22 – 529 Plan Benefits & Drawbacks
• 04:04 – 529 Plan Flexibility & Financial Aid Impact
• 04:44 – Running College Savings Analyses for Clients
• 05:23 – Recent Legislative Changes: Expanded 529 Uses
• 06:03 – 529s for Trade Schools & Credentialing
• 06:19 – Rolling Over 529 Funds to Roth IRA
• 06:54 – Multi-Generational College Planning
• 08:28 – Gifting to 529s for Birthdays & Holidays
• 08:58 – Student Debt: Strategies for Repayment
• 09:31 – When to Pay Down Debt vs. Invest
• 10:11 – Importance of Working with an Advisor
• 10:57 – Personal Story: University of Houston & Family Tradition
• 12:00 – Closing Remarks & Contact Information

Original Air Date: July 26, 2025 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

Contact:  www.crestmontpw.com 

Alec Walker in Houston:  831-280-5288 

Sam McGee in Boerne: 830-368-2898