<p>The PA 529 rules state that computers are NOT a qualified expense for reimbursement through the 529 account unless we can provide a proof in writing that the university requires one. Has anyone encountered this? Is anyone aware of any documentation from Udel that states that a computer is required? D will be an Economics major.</p>
<p>UD does not mandate that students bring computers, but it is highly recommended. Students really do need one to check their official UD email and a number of courses do have on-line components to them. UD gets around requiring students to have a computer by offering computer access through a number of computer labs and other sites throughout the campus. I would wager that over 95% of students do bring some type of a computer with them. It is much more convenient to have one of your own in your dorm rather than having to access one at some other site on campus. I do not believe that you will be able to get any type of “official” document from UD stating computers are “required”. The only thing I could suggest would be to contact the Economics Dept. at UD and inquire about whether they “require” their students to have a computer (but I tend to doubt this would be the case). If they do perhaps you might be able to get something in writing from them.</p>
<p>I believe that 529 plan rules are governed by Federal tax law and not PA rules. From the IRS website, it appears that 529 funds can be withdrawn for computer equipment. However, its best to consult your own tax advisor! [529</a> Plans: Questions and Answers](<a href=“http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=213043,00.html]529”>http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=213043,00.html)</p>
<p>A related question is how advanced (and how expensive) a computer to buy. The establishment of an Apple store at the university book store presents the image that the university is endorsing Apple computers, which I understand are generally more expensive than other PCs.</p>
<p>More likely the University is simply “endorsing” the advantages of recieving financial benefit from allowing private companies like Apple, Barnes & Noble, PNC bank and that “student care package” outfit to have an enhanced presence on campus. </p>
<p>Unless your child is in some computing intensive course of study (which he she and you would probably know) you probably don’t need as advanced a computer as they are likely to want. But then again, they will use if for four years, carry it back and forth to home and school and while there at the library, so if you can, might as get the best you can. By the spring and certainly next fall, it will already be behind the curve, but maybe less so if you opt for a more advanced one now.</p>
<p>One huge advantage, IMO, to Apple…I’ve never, ever had a virus in 18 years…and the PC I purchased when required by a job, was forever locking up and needing to be restarted…The macs are move expensive, but I’ve found them to be highly reliable.</p>