As an account owner, you should take into account these variables as they pertain to your particular situation when you choose a plan:

• Personal Timeline
  When do you need this money to be available?
  
• Risk Tolerance
  Do you want a guarantee of available funds, or do you want to be more aggressive with your savings and investment strategy?
  
• Tax Advantages
  529 plan monies grow tax deferred and are tax-free when withdrawn if used to pay for qualified higher education expenses. Depending on the state in which you live, other tax advantages may apply. Consult your tax adviser for details.
  
• Flexibility
  Do you like to actively manage your savings and investments, or would you like professionals to manage your asset allocation decisions?
  
• Diversification.
  The same individual or different individuals may have more than one 529 account for the same beneficiary. Creating a diversified savings and investment portfolio that includes a guaranteed savings vehicle (like VPEP) and a market return investment vehicle (like VEST) maximizes the likelihood that sufficient funds will be available for college expenses. You can create your own customized investment using the VEST portfolios, or have your financial adviser assist you through CollegeAmerica. The total value of all accounts for a single beneficiary in all section 529 plans administered by the VCSP (VPEP, VEST, CollegeAmerica, and CollegeWealth) is limited to $350,000.