How to Open a Bright Start 529 Account
Published November 24, 2025
Last Modified Date November 24, 2025
Opening a 529 college savings account doesn't have to feel overwhelming. With Bright Start 529, the process is simple, fast, and you can open an account with any dollar amount!
What You'll Need & How to Get Started
Before you begin, make sure you have a few key details on hand. This includes:
- Account owner Information: The parent, grandparent, or guardian who will manage the account. Anyone with a valid Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number who is at least 18 years of age and has a U.S. address can open a Bright Start 529 account. The account owner will need to provide:
- Name
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)
- Date of birth
- Permanent U.S. address
- Investment portfolio decision
- Bank account routing number
- Beneficiary Information: The student who will use the funds for future education expenses. Anyone with a valid Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number with a U.S. address. Information needed for the beneficiary includes:
- Name
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)
- Date of birth
- Current address
- Successor owner Information: An optional designation for who would take over the account in the event the original account owner passes away. If you decide to designate a successor owner, you will need:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Telephone number
To enroll, you can choose between the Bright Start 529 website or the READYSAVE 529™ mobile app, both of which can make the process easy and simple.
Bright Start 529 Benefits & Perks
One of the biggest benefits of the Bright Start 529 College Savings plan is its affordability. Unlike some savings programs, Bright Start 529 has:
- No application fees
- No minimum contribution
- No change-in-beneficiary fees
- No age or income restrictions
- Average annual asset-based investment expenses for Bright Start 529 rank among the lowest in the country.1
This means you can start with as little or as much as you'd like, making it accessible and affordable for families.
Already have a 529 plan account?
If you already have a 529 plan with another provider, you can easily roll it over into a Bright Start 529 account. The process is straightforward – indicate during enrollment that you want to complete a rollover, then mail the form to your current plan administrator and they will initiate a transfer to Bright Start 529. This can be a smart option if you'd like to consolidate accounts, and for Illinois taxpayers, to take advantage of Illinois' state tax deductions (up to $10,000 annually for individuals and $20,000 for joint filers).2
Optional Help & Next Steps
If you'd like extra support while setting up your account, Bright Start 529 offers live webinars, planning tools, and free one-on-one consultations with a college savings specialist.
You can also compare investment portfolios online to find the option that best aligns with your goals.
The sooner you open an account, the more time you have to take advantage of compound earnings and unique tax benefits. And with the flexibility of a 529 plan, even small, consistent contributions may add up over the years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a 529 college savings plan?
A: A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan designed to help families save for college and a range of other qualified education expenses. 529 refers to Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. Read More about the benefits of a 529.
Q: How does a 529 college savings plan compare to other college savings options?
A: A 529 plan can mean more flexibility and growth potential, including:
- Tax-free qualified withdrawals
- Illinois state tax deduction2
- Low fees and expenses
- Easy-to-choose investment options
- Favorable financial aid treatment
- Use for a wide range of education expenses and programs—in Illinois and around the world
Get more details and compare savings options.
Q: Who is eligible to open a Bright Start 529 account?
A: Anyone over 18 with a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) can open an account, regardless of income or state of residence. However, Illinois state tax benefits are exclusively for residents.2
Q: Can I move an existing 529 plan to Bright Start 529?
A: Yes. You can initiate a direct rollover from another state's plan into your Bright Start 529 account during the enrollment process to consolidate savings and potentially access Illinois tax benefits.3
Q: What are the costs to get started?
A: There are no application fees, and no minimum initial deposit. Bright Start 529 is among the lowest-cost 529 plans in the country.1
