Using 529 Plan Funds at Epic Flight Academy

Epic Flight Academy accepts payments from 529 education savings plans for qualifying educational expenses in eligible aviation training programs.

Federal law permits 529 funds to be used for certain postsecondary credentialing programs, including programs leading to recognized occupational or professional credentials. Eligibility depends on the student’s program, the specific expense, the requirements of the applicable 529 plan, and federal and state law.

Part 141 Flight Training

Students enrolled in eligible FAA Part 141 programs may be able to use 529 funds for qualifying expenses such as:

• Tuition and required training fees;
• Required flight and ground instruction;
• Required aircraft or simulator training;
• Required books and training materials;
• Required examinations and testing fees; and
• Required supplies or equipment.

Only expenses required as part of the applicable training program may qualify. Optional equipment, elective services, and personal purchases may not be eligible.

Part 147 Aircraft Mechanic Training

Students enrolled in eligible FAA Part 147 aircraft mechanic programs may be able to use 529 funds for qualifying expenses such as:

• Tuition and required program fees;
• Required books and instructional materials;
• Required tools, supplies, and equipment;
• Required examination and testing fees.

Only expenses required as part of the applicable training program may qualify. Optional equipment, elective services, and personal purchases may not be eligible.

Part 61 Flight Training

Only certain portions of Part 61 training may qualify for payment with 529 funds. Eligibility must be evaluated based on the specific training, expense, credential being pursued, and requirements of the student’s 529 plan.

Epic Flight Academy’s acceptance of a 529 payment for a particular Part 61 charge does not mean that the student’s entire Part 61 training program qualifies. Students and account owners should obtain guidance from their plan administrator and tax adviser before requesting a distribution.

Housing and Living Expenses

Epic Flight Academy does not accept or apply 529 funds toward housing or personal living expenses, including:

• Rent or student housing;
• Meals;
• Personal transportation;
• Personal insurance;
• General living expenses; or
• Other noneducational costs.

Invoices may separate potentially qualifying educational charges from housing, living expenses, optional purchases, and other nonqualifying charges.

Requesting a 529 Payment

Before requesting a distribution, students and account owners should:

1. Confirm eligibility with their 529 plan administrator.
2. Identify the specific program and expenses to be paid.
3. Request an itemized statement from Epic Flight Academy, if needed.
4. Confirm the applicable federal and state tax treatment with a qualified adviser.
5. Arrange payment in accordance with the plan administrator’s procedures.

Epic Flight Academy may provide ordinary enrollment records, account statements, invoices, and receipts. However, the Academy does not provide tax advice, guarantee that any expense will qualify, or execute provider certifications, eligibility statements, invoice certifications, plan-specific participation agreements, or similar documents that would impose additional legal, tax, reporting, or administrative responsibilities on the Academy.

Acceptance of a payment does not constitute a representation or guarantee that the distribution is tax-free or otherwise qualified under federal or state law. The 529 account owner and beneficiary remain responsible for substantiating the use and tax treatment of all distributions.

Refunds and Account Adjustments

Withdrawals, schedule changes, program changes, or other account adjustments may result in a refund or credit. A refund involving 529 funds may have tax consequences and may be subject to time-sensitive recontribution rules.

Students and account owners are responsible for consulting their 529 plan administrator or tax adviser about handling refunds. Epic Flight Academy cannot determine whether a refund should be recontributed or advise the recipient regarding its tax treatment.

Financial & Tax Disclaimer

Epic Flight Academy is an aviation educational institution, not a financial advisory firm. Tax laws regarding 529 plans vary significantly by state and individual circumstances. The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute official tax, legal, or financial advice. Eligibility may depend on the particular training program, expense, 529 plan, and applicable federal and state law. Acceptance of 529 funds by Epic Flight Academy does not guarantee that a distribution or expense will receive tax-favored treatment. We strongly recommend consulting with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), qualified tax professional, or qualified financial advisor before making distributions from a 529 plan.