With college costs rising to astronomical levels, many parents worry that they won’t be able to sufficiently fund their child’s 529 plan in time to pay the first tuition bill. One strategy that has been gaining popularity is enlisting the help of friends and family.

Many families agree that 529 college savings plans are one of the best and easiest ways to save for college. However, just like any investment, the underlying portfolio of a 529 account may be exposed to stock and bond market risks, which can be a cause for concern. After all, you want to rest easy knowing the money you put into your child or grandchild’s college fund will remain secure. So how can you protect your principal college savings investment but still take advantage of lucrative tax benefits?