"Despite all their faults, experts say some of the better 'guaranteed' college savings plans are still good options for anyone whose kids are likely to attend participating schools," U.S. News & World Report reports. "'Prepaids can play an important role in securing the cost of a future education,' says Andrea Feirstein, a longtime industry consultant who recently published a study analyzing guarantees behind the plans. ... But since the recession has threatened some prepaid 529s' ability to keep their promises, Feirstein and other experts say it is crucial for parents to carve out a little time in their frazzled lives to find a safe, well-managed plan. 'It's all about asking the right questions,' she says."