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MOST- Missouri’s 529 Education Plan

August 6, 2025 by Deidre Mings

🎓 Saving for Education with the MOST 529 Plan

The MOST 529 Plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan designed to help you set aside money for future education expenses—tuition, room and board, textbooks, and more. Contributions grow tax-deferred, and qualified withdrawals are federally tax-free. Missouri residents may also benefit from a state tax deduction on contributions.

👤 Who Can Open a MOST 529 Account?

Anyone! You can open a 529 account for:

  • Yourself
  • A spouse
  • A child or grandchild
  • A friend or other loved one

💡 If you’re saving for yourself, you’ll be both the account owner and the beneficiary.

Each child will need a separate account. When enrolling, you’ll select how your payroll contributions are divided across accounts. Simply enter your total contribution amount in your payroll settings, and MOST will handle the rest based on your setup.

📈 How Are Funds Invested?

Funds in a MOST 529 account are not guaranteed, as they’re linked to the market. However, you can choose from a variety of investment strategies:

  • Conservative
  • Moderate
  • Aggressive

Pick the one that matches your comfort level with risk.

🌍 Can Funds Be Used Abroad?

Yes! Funds may be used at some international institutions—as long as the school is eligible for federal student aid programs.
🔍 Check if a school qualifies by searching the Federal School Code List.

💰 Contribution Options

You can contribute in two ways:

  • Payroll deduction (post-tax)
  • Lump sum payments via check or bank transfer

All contributions—regardless of method—are post-tax.

💸 When Can I Withdraw?

Funds are typically available for withdrawal 7–10 business days after deposit. Remember, withdrawals must be used for qualified education expenses to keep their tax-free status.

💻 Upcoming Zoom Sessions

Learn more about:

  • Tax advantages
  • Contribution strategies
  • Eligible expenses
  • How to open an account

📅 Session Dates:

  • August 14, 2025 – 5:30 PM
  • August 21, 2025 – 11:00 AM
  • August 28, 2025 – 5:30 PM
  • September 3, 2025 – 11:00 AM

👉 Register Here

🤝 One-on-One Support Available

Have specific questions?
Ashley Richardson is available for individual consultations to walk you through your options or answer questions.

📅 Schedule a 1:1 Appointment with Ashley

📰 Stay Informed:

Follow the HR Blog for benefit updates and the Wellness Blog for health and wellness news!


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Filed Under: Employee Benefits, Featured Tagged With: 529, education, employee wellness, financial wellness, MOST, savings, wellness

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