Should I invest in a 529 college savings plan? or is it better to save in a mutual fund/bonds?

I think you should talk to a trusted broker about this one... The goal here is to save as much as possible, make it grow as fast as possible and minimize the tax burden on the gains. Mutual funds can have tax advantages and the 529 has tax advantages.

I also think you will have to consider how much time before the money is needed and this something else a broker can assist you with.

The broker / Financial planner is not making a decision for you... only giving you all the information you need to make the best decision for you and your family.

It depends on your future plans and your priorities. If the money will 100% for sure be used for education, go with 529. If maybe yes maybe no,then stay with mutual funds. By the way, you can invest in mutual funds within a 529 plan also.

No need to decide between the 2 as can have mutual funds in most 529s. If not sure on college-going likelihood avoid the 529 or at least don't maximize. Broker advice useless.

I always thought this was interesting and something to think about. The word should'nt is used in the writing.

http://www.savingforcollege.com/intro_to...

529 plans actually invest your money into mutual funds, so you would be doing both.....great way to sock away a bunch of money for college, tax free.........no other way you can invest that much money tax free for college anywhere else. each state has their own plan through a mutual fund company, just have to find out who your state uses. good luck