Trump's 'big beautiful bill' turned 529 plans into 'lifelong education' accounts, expert says: How to take advantage

New rules are expanding how tax-advantaged 529 savings plans can be used to pay for expenses beyond college, unlocking money that workers can use to advance or change careers. Under provisions in President Donald Trump 's One Big Beautiful Bill Act , signed into law in July 2025, you can use a 529 plan to save not only for your child's education but also for your own career training or professional credentials. "You can now use them really as lifelong education savings accounts," said Vivian Tsai, managing director of TIAA Education Savings. The changes are "hugely transformational for adult learners," she said. More from Your Money: Here's a look at more stories on how to manage, grow and protect your money for the years ahead. TIAA is the third-largest 529 plan program manager, with $83.5 billion in assets as of March 31, according to data compiled by ISS Market Intelligence. How to make the most of 529 plans Nathan Sebesta teaches his daughter about money. Courtesy: Nathan Sebesta Certified financial planner Nathan Sebesta, owner of Access Wealth Strategies in Artesia, New Mexico, said he started using funds from a 529 plan in 2020 to help pay for his master's degree in financial planning. He later changed the account beneficiary to his daughter. Now, he advises clients to consider using money from a 529 account for classes and programs to help them switch careers or grow in their field. …