Ohio Tuition Trust Authority

More savings equals less debt equals more options in life.

State government office in Columbus, OH (show on map)

2.9

★★★☆☆

7 reviews

Ohio’s tax-free 529 Direct Plan for saving for college, trade school, certificates, apprenticeships, and more.

Call (800) 233-6734

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About

CollegeAdvantage is Ohio’s tax‑free 529 Direct Plan designed for DIY savers seeking the lowest cost way to invest. It offers automatic investment plans, low fees, and the ability to use funds for a wide range of education expenses including college, trade school, certificates, apprenticeships, and K‑12 tuition. The p

latform includes tools like the 529 Explorer, Ugift for easy family contributions, and educational resources to guide savers through the process.

Lowest cost investment options

Automatic investment plan

State income tax deduction for Ohio residents

Ugift feature for easy family contributions

Flexible use for K‑12 tuition up to $10,000 per year

Services

529 Direct Plan Savings

A tax‑free savings plan for higher education expenses, including college, trade school, certificates, apprenticeships, and K‑12 tuition.

Lowest cost investment options Automatic investment plan Tax‑free earnings and withdrawals State income tax deduction for Ohio residents Ugift feature for easy family contributions

Ugift529

A unique code system allowing family and friends to contribute to a beneficiary’s 529 account without needing the account number.

Easy sharing via ReadySave 529 app State income tax deduction for Ohio contributors Flexible contribution amounts and frequency

529 Short Course

Educational playlists tailored to new parents and grandparents, covering 529 basics, investment choices, and tax benefits.

Video series with 29‑second overviews Curated content for specific audiences (new parents, grandparents) Accessible via website and mobile app

Credentials & Certifications

Ohio Tuition Trust Authority

Reviews

Rating

2.9

★★★☆☆

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you start saving for college now? +

Starting early allows your savings to benefit from compound interest and Ohio’s tax advantages, reducing the amount your children or grandchildren may need to borrow.

Why save in a 529 Plan instead of an everyday savings account? +

529 Plans offer tax‑free earnings and withdrawals for qualified education expenses, plus a state income tax deduction for Ohio residents, making them more advantageous than traditional savings accounts.

Where can you use Ohio's 529 Plan? +

Ohio’s 529 Plan can be used at over 30,000 schools nationwide for college, trade school, certificates, apprenticeships, and K‑12 tuition (up to $10,000 per year).

How much do families save for college? +

Families typically start saving early and gradually increase contributions to cover tuition, room & board, books, and other qualified expenses.

Does it matter where your grandkids live when saving in a 529? +

No, it does not matter where grandkids live; Ohio 529 accounts can be used nationwide for qualified education expenses, and Ohio residents receive a state tax deduction for contributions.

What are non‑qualified expenses for a 529 Plan? +

Non‑qualified expenses include transportation, child care, health insurance, and general education costs not related to higher education, K‑12 tuition (except the $10,000 annual limit), and other ineligible items.