New! 529 Savings Plans Now Cover Professional Certifications
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Have you heard? As of July 2025, 529 savings plans can now be used to pay for professional certifications and credentialing programs, including testing fees and continuing education requirements. Since NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP®) program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), it is considered a qualified postsecondary credential under the new law. This expansion gives paralegals the opportunity to use their 529 savings plan to fund their NALA certification.
529 plans were designed as tax-advantaged savings accounts used to fund college and university tuition. Contributions are made after tax, but qualifying withdrawals are tax-free, making them a powerful tool for educational support. Thanks to updates included in the federal Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act, 529 funds can now go toward professional development outside of the classroom, including certification.
If you are already a NALA Certified Paralegal (CP®), you may be eligible for reimbursement from your 529. CPs can also use 529 funds for continuing education that is required to maintain their certification, including live and on-demand CLE sessions.
You can learn more about the expanded 529 savings plans here. We encourage you to contact your plan administrator for more information about your specific situation.
