Today, Nicole unpacks the exact accounts she opened for her daughter, the math that makes starting early almost unfair, and the money script she's determined to rewrite for the next generation. Whether you have a newborn, a teenager, or you're realizing you wish someone had done this for you, this episode is a blueprint.
Nicole breaks down how a 529 plan is far more flexible than most parents realize, why a custodial brokerage account is less about returns and more about teaching kids that money grows quietly in the background, and why a retirement account for a one-year-old is not as insane as it sounds — it's one of the most powerful financial moves a parent can make.
Check out Nicole's financial literacy course The Money School
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Watch video clips from the pod on Money Rehab's Instagram and Nicole Lapin's Instagram
Here's what Nicole covers today:
00:00 Are You Ready for Some Money Rehab?
01:13 529 Plans: More Flexible Than You Think
02:02 The Math on Starting Early vs. Waiting
02:51 Super Funding: The IRS Loophole Most Parents Miss
03:31 Lump Sum vs. Monthly: The Numbers That Will Shock You
04:00 How to Shop for the Best 529 Plan
04:17 Custodial Brokerage Accounts Explained
05:00 The Financial Aid Trade-Off
05:41 Why Nicole Really Opened This Account for Her Daughter
05:56 The Custodial Roth IRA (Yes, for a 1-Year-Old)
07:00 The Number That Changes Everything
08:00 Roth IRAs and Financial Aid: The Cleaner Vehicle
08:21 Rewriting the Money Script
09:00 Tip You Can Take Straight to the Bank
All investing involves risk, including loss of principal. This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Always consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions.