Help give their future a boost with triple tax benefits

Illinois taxpayers can qualify for a state tax deduction up to $20,000 if married filing jointly ($10,000 for single filers) by opening an account and contributing.

Your contributions can go further with the triple tax benefits of a Bright Start 529 account

Illinois State tax deduction

Illinois taxpayers can qualify for a state tax deduction up to $20,000 if married filing jointly ($10,000 for single filers) for contributions made into a Bright Start 529 account.1

100% tax-free withdrawals

Withdraw tax free for all qualified education expenses at any eligible college and university (in the U.S. and abroad) and vocational schools for tuition and fees, room and board, books, computers and more.

Tax-deferred growth

Any earnings grow tax deferred. When you pay less taxes, you may have the ability to earn more and grow your college savings account faster—giving your beneficiary an even bigger head start!

Why a Bright Start 529 account?

Your child has options

Savings can be used for any eligible college or university in the U.S. and abroad, technical and community colleges, graduate, postgraduate or professional schools, apprenticeships and more.2

You enjoy more flexibility

Funds are transferable to other family members: siblings, stepchildren, cousins—even you can be eligible.

Financial aid-friendly

Typically your 529 is viewed as a parental asset rather than your child's asset—which means they often count less against financial aid eligibility.3

You have more control

Your savings will always be yours, and you're never locked in. You can withdraw your funds at any time.4

Start their college savings now!

The sooner you start, the more you could save for college.

Open an Account