Education Planning

Why start planning for an education now?

With the price of a college education in the U.S. consistently rising, it’s never been more important to start planning ahead. By getting an early start with a college savings plan, you can help offset some of the expenses for your child or grandchild.

There are a couple of different savings vehicles that can help fund your child’s higher education, such as:

  • 529 Savings Plan
  • Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (formerly known as the “Education IRA”)*

While 529 plans and Coverdells are specifically designed for college funding, there are other alternatives that could help cover higher education expenses. Work with your financial advisor to review your options and select a plan that works best for your family’s needs.

How can I get started?

Call today at 800-546-5721 or 217-258-3344!

*Raymond James does not offer Coverdell Education Savings Accounts as a custodian. However, they are contracted to offer these accounts through certain mutual fund companies.


Some investment products and services are not deposits, obligations or guaranteed by the bank; not insured by the FDIC or any other governmental agency, and may be subject to investment risk including potential principal loss.

Securities are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.  member FINRA / SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC or any other bank insurance or government agency, are not deposits or obligations of the bank, are not guaranteed by the bank, and are subject to risks including the possible loss of principal. Raymond James Privacy Notice.

Raymond James financial advisors may only conduct business with residents of the states and/or jurisdictions for which they are properly registered. Therefore, a response to a request for information may be delayed. Please note that not all of the investments and services mentioned are available in every state. Investors outside of the United States are subject to securities and tax regulations within their applicable jurisdictions that are not addressed on this site. Contact your local Raymond James office for information and availability.

First Mid Bank & Trust and First Mid Wealth Management are not registered broker/dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. 

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Rules and laws governing 529 plans are varied and subject to change. As with other investments, there are generally fees and expenses associated with participation in a 529 plan. There is also a risk that these plans may lose money or not perform well enough to cover college costs as anticipated. Most states offer their own 529 programs, which may provide advantages and benefits exclusively for their residents. Investors should consider, before investing, whether the investor’s or the designated beneficiary’s home state offers any tax or other benefits that are only available for investment in such state’s 529 college savings plan. Such benefits include financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors. The tax implications can vary significantly from state to state.