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The advice grandparents got about paying for college is out of date. Under the old FAFSA, a grandparent paying tuition from a 529 could cut a grandchild's next aid package by up to 50 cents on the dollar. Advisors told families to wait until senior year or route the money through parents.
That rule is gone. Under the 2026–27 FAFSA, distributions from grandparent-owned 529 plans are not reported as student income at all. Federal aid formulas look past these accounts entirely.
Our new article covers what changed, how 529s and direct tuition payments compare, and the Minnesota tax benefit that applies regardless of who owns the account.
The stock and bond markets continue to focus on three key issues: inflation, interest rates, and geopolitical uncertainty.
Congratulations to Mallory Kretman, CFP®, on her promotion to Senior Wealth Manager. Fifteen years with Laurel Wealth Planning, from client service associate to shareholder and Chief Compliance Officer.
The recent SpaceX IPO has captured investor attention as one of the most dramatic public offerings in history. The company came to market in June 2026 at a valuation of approximately $1.77 trillion, briefly exceeding $2 trillion after trading began.
Staying current on the issues that shape your financial life is central to how Laurel Wealth Planning serves its clients. That commitment recently took Laura Kuntz to AICPA ENGAGE, the largest annual national gathering of CPAs in the country, drawing more than 3,000 attendees, including CPA wealth managers, to this four-day event.
Peak earning years (45-55) can be your biggest opportunity—or your biggest missed opportunity. This article discusses 4 smart wealth management strategies to help you make the most of it.
Felix and Max have passed the CFP® exam! This milestone reflects their deep commitment to professional excellence and serving your needs. Read more about what this means in our new article.
Felix and Max have passed the CFP® exam! This milestone reflects their deep commitment to professional excellence and serving your needs. Read more about what this means in our new article.
Need some help navigating everyday life after divorce? Read this article, the third (and final) part in our series, for helpful insights from attorney Lindsey O’Connell of Tuft Lach on practical life management and emotional well-being.
In this article, the second in a three-part series, attorney Chris Vatsaas offers financial guidance on the next steps for new divorcees.
Many people assume their will determines who inherits their assets. But in many cases, beneficiary designations on accounts like retirement plans or life insurance take priority. If they aren’t updated, your assets could go to the wrong person. Learn why beneficiary planning matters.
Hear What Our Clients Say:
"We are honored to be recognized for the care we give our clients and the standards we hold ourselves to. There is nothing more important to us than helping our clients meet their financial goals."
Laura Kuntz, Senior Wealth Manager and CEO
The above testimonial contains statements and opinions from actual clients of Laurel Wealth Planning. Individuals were not compensated to discuss their experiences or have them shared on this website. Each client’s experience will differ and highlighted clients’ experiences may not be indicative of the experiences of other current or future clients. All investing involves risks, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no guarantee that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.