Wisconsin Senate Bill SB752

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/23
• Refer: 12/8/23
• Report Pass: 2/27/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Modifying the tax treatment of college savings accounts and the employee college savings account contribution credit. (FE)

Impact

Additionally, the bill requires a first-in, first-out accounting method for withdrawals, which will ensure that tax implications relate more accurately to the contributions made and subsequently withdrawn from these accounts. The definition of qualified higher education expenses would also be updated to mirror federal standards, allowing for a broader range of qualifying costs, including those related to elementary and secondary education. This change aims to provide more flexibility and financial support for families preparing for various educational pathways.

Summary

Senate Bill 752 aims to modify the tax treatment of contributions to college savings accounts, specifically those known as 529 accounts. The bill proposes to increase the maximum deductibility of contributions, raising the limits to $5,000 for individual contributors and $2,500 for married individuals filing separately. This adjustment is intended to encourage more contributions to college savings, aligning with a broader initiative to make higher education more accessible and financially manageable for families in Wisconsin. Under the terms of the bill, these amounts will be adjusted annually for inflation, allowing for continued relevance in changing economic conditions.

Contention

While supporters argue that these modifications will enhance support for education funding and ease the burden on families saving for college, there may be concerns about the financial implications of these tax deductions on state revenues. The increase in potential credits for employee contributions to these savings accounts may also garner mixed responses, depending on the views regarding tax breaks for employers and the larger economic impacts of incentivizing such savings mechanisms.