Calculate any taxes and/or penalties, if applicable. Withdrawals from the most popular savings methods---529 College Savings Plans and CESAs---are tax-free when used for tuition, fees, supplies and other qualified college-related expenses. CESAs are also tax-free when used for the beneficiary's K-12 expenses. However, other expenses will be subject to income tax and an additional 10 percent penalty.
Determine whether withdrawal is worth the price you might pay. If you decide you must withdraw college savings for reasons other than your child's education, consult with a financial adviser to find out how to minimize penalties.
Download a withdrawal form on the plan's website or visit an administrative office to pick one up in person. Fill out the form (or, if you are not the account holder, have them fill it out) and fax, mail or drop it off.
In most cases, the account holder can then withdraw money, place it in a regular checking or savings account and use it to pay the college directly. However, sometimes withdrawals are limited to reimbursements for already-paid college expenses. Check with your plan's administrator for specific details.