26 Mar Should I change our 529 plans because of the stock market?

Q. My twins will be applying for college next year. Should I put their 529 plans in all cash because of the crazy stock market?
— Dad

A. This is an exciting time for your family.

We’re glad you’ve used 529 plans to save for your children.

And we also understand if the stock market’s volatility is making you nervous.

You didn’t say what the 529 plans were invested in, but most companies offer options that take the guesswork out of it for you based on when you expect to need the money.

The plans, usually called age-based plans, allocate investments so that the portfolio is taking on less risk the closer it gets to the start of college.
When the beneficiary is a baby or toddler, most of the portfolio would be invested in mostly or all in stocks. As the child gets older, the investments shift to a more conservative allocation.

If you’re in a more risky allocation, you may want to consider the age-based funds. If the market heads higher, you will earn less, but you will also limit your losses as you get closer to needing the money.

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This story was originally published in March 2026. 

NJMoneyHelp.com presents certain general financial planning principles and advice, but should never be viewed as a substitute for obtaining advice from a personal professional advisor who understands your unique individual circumstances.