Oregon Tax Consultants Practice Exam

What is an essential requirement for participating in a College Savings Plan?

1. Establishing a trust fund

2. Designating a beneficiary

3. Obtaining a scholarship

4. Graduating high school

The correct answer is: Designating a beneficiary

Designating a beneficiary is an essential requirement for participating in a College Savings Plan because these plans are specifically designed to help families save for a child's future higher education expenses. A beneficiary is typically the student - the individual who will use the funds for college or other qualified education expenses. This designation is crucial because it clarifies who the funds are intended for and ensures that they are used appropriately for educational purposes. In contrast, establishing a trust fund is not a requirement for a College Savings Plan; these plans are often structured to operate independently without needing a separate trust. Obtaining a scholarship is unrelated to the mechanics of a College Savings Plan, as scholarships are financial aid awarded after the saving process. Lastly, graduating high school is not a prerequisite for starting a savings plan, as the account can be established at any time before the beneficiary enrolls in college. Thus, designating a beneficiary stands as the foundational step in engaging with a College Savings Plan.