How handle 529 funds when payment of 2023 lodging in 2022 results in higher than allowed room and board for 2022

[stilllearningtaxes]

As I understand, 529 reimbursements should be made in the year expenses are incurred.  We usually use less than the "allowed" (college cost of attendance R&B amount) room and board.  However, this year my daughter has to pay a portion of her Spring 2023 housing costs in 2022, which is going to put us slightly over what is listed for Spring/Fall 2022.  Is it ok to reimburse what she paid in 2022, because the payment goes toward the 2023 "allowable" amount?  Should we wait to reimburse her in January instead?

[Anonymous_]

Perhaps @Hal_Al can provide some input.

[Hal_Al · Accepted solution]

Q. Is it ok to reimburse what she paid in 2022, because the payment goes toward the 2023 "allowable" amount? 

A. Yes. In fact, you are required to do that so that the 529 reimbursements are made in the year expenses are incurred (actally paid).  You are allowed to count first term 2023 expenses paid in 2022. 

Q. Should we wait to reimburse her in January instead?

A.  No. You are technically not allowed to reimburse yourself (or your student) in 2023 for money spent in 2022. 

The fact that the total exceeds 2022 allowable doesn't matter, because (as you surmised)  the payment goes toward the 2023 "allowable" amount. 

[stilllearningtaxes]

Thank you @Hal_Al!