09/04/2025

Congress Touts Benefits of Expanded 529 Savings Plans

OSAP helped expand these plans as part of the TWC

Congress has expanded 529 college savings plans to cover post-secondary training and professional credentials — including ASAE’s Certified Association Executive (CAE) — delivering a significant victory for association professionals and the broader workforce.

Why it matters: The expansion means tax-advantaged 529 funds can now be used to obtain and maintain licenses, nongovernmental certifications, and credentials like the CAE. For association professionals, this provides new tools to access the industry’s leading training and education in association management.

“This success transforms college savings plans into true career savings plans,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “It’s a game-changer for professionals who want to invest in their futures and for associations committed to workforce development.”

The policy change was driven by the advocacy of ASAE’s Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition, a 900-member alliance of associations, in which OSAP was a founding member, and industry partners. Coalition members held more than 200 meetings with Congressional offices, while grassroots advocates sent over 1,200 messages urging lawmakers to support the expansion.

The expansion of 529 eligibility also drew praise on Capitol Hill. Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-MO) highlighted the benefits in a statement earlier today, noting that broadening 529 uses supports both workers and the economy.

The bottom line: By aligning 529 plans with workforce needs, Congress has recognized the critical role of ongoing education, credentialing, and skills development in today’s dynamic economy.

Learn more about new uses for 529 Plans at the Power of Associations website.

This article was provided to OSAP by ASAE's Power of Associations and Inroads.