Episode 100: Growing the Education Harvest – College Savings Strategies Part 2: Alternative Approaches for High-Income Physicians

In Episode 100 of Doctor’s Wealth and Wellness, titled "Growing the Education Harvest – College Savings Strategies Part 2: Alternative Approaches for High-Income Physicians," host Norm Wright, a Certified Financial Planner with SKC Financial Group, continues the deep dive into college funding for busy, high-earning doctors who have maxed out or want to supplement traditional 529 plans and prepaid tuition options. The episode explores three flexible alternatives: taxable brokerage accounts for unlimited contributions, full liquidity, and investment control (with real-world examples like a surgeon accessing funds penalty-free mid-college); permanent cash-value life insurance (whole or universal life) as a tax-deferred supplemental tool with policy loans/withdrawals and death benefit protection, ideal for larger savings without caps; and custodial accounts (UTMA/UGMA) combined with strategic annual gifting of appreciated assets to reduce estates while funding education. Wright emphasizes building a mix of these strategies for greater control, liquidity, and adaptability amid contribution limits and aid eligibility concerns, wrapping up with actionable weekly steps—like reviewing brokerage accounts, requesting life insurance illustrations, or consulting advisors on gifting—and an invitation for free consultations to tailor plans to family goals. Examples in this episode are hypothetical and not representative of a specific individual.