THE 529 FACTS

With all 50 states now offering529 college savings plans, it pays tolook around before you buy intoone. One question to ask is whetheryour contributions to your ownstate's plan will get you a break onyour state taxes. That may make itmore attractive than an out-of-stateplan, even if your state's plan hasfewer investment choices. Also checkout how much and how little you caninvest. You can get into some 529plans with as little as $25.Watch outfor management fees, too. Someplans charge as much as 2%, whichcan hurt results. If you're looking forthe lowdown on 529 plans, here aresome handy Web sites: www.savingforcollege.com, www.collegesavings.org, and www.finaid.com.