PODCAST EPISODE 346 – The Truth About 529 Plans | Full Spreadsheet Demo

ByCory Shepherd

In this special “Behind the Numbers” edition, Cory takes you deeper into the 529 plan conversation with a full spreadsheet walkthrough. He breaks down every scenario from Part 1: Comparing 529 plans, brokerage accounts, student loan strategies, and new Roth IRA conversion rules, using real S&P return data and clear assumptions.

Cory demonstrates how small differences in tax treatment, timing, or risk allocation can completely change long-term results, and he highlights the surprising cases where a 529 wins, and where it doesn’t. You’ll see the real math behind college savings, including scenarios for state tax deductions, financial turbulence, and the powerful “collegium Roth” approach.

Whether you’re a parent, planner, or investor, this episode turns abstract strategy into numbers you can actually understand.

Check out Part 1: https://youtu.be/RQLGY1OE1vs

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Timestamps:
00:40 – Rate of Return (ROR) Assumptions
01:48 – Scenario 1: Brokerage Account ($100K total over 18 years, pay cash for school)
04:25 – Scenario 2: 529 Plan ($100K total over 18 years)
07:37 – Scenario 3: Brokerage Account + Student Loans (use loans first, pay off later)
12:54 – Scenario 4: 529 with State Tax Deduction (South Carolina Example)

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This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

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Cory Shepherd

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Cory Shepherd

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Cory is the author of the books Cape Not Required and Your Business Your Wealth (with Paul Adams) as well as the cohost of More Than Commas, a 300+ episode financial podcast.  He has also written for Authority Magazine and spoken at multiple events and conferences across various industries.  Ever in pursuit of personal growth, Cory has attained the Chartered Financial Consultant® & Certified Financial Planner® designations, requiring thousands of hours of experience and rigorous training.  He believes strongly in education as a core component of his work with clients, and he loves the opportunity to build a new spreadsheet.

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