College Savings

Explore stories, resources and updates about Illinois 529 college savings programs that help families save for education with tax advantages.

Graphic reading "Turning the page to 2026"

Turning the Page to 2026

Like millions of Americans, I make New Year’s resolutions. Last year, like millions of Americans, I resolved to exercise more, eat better, and lose weight. I had some work to do. The twins were born during summer 2023, and they brought us untold joy. Taking care of them also meant less sleep, more snacking and comfort foods, and no energy to work out. Bad habits formed, and pounds packed on. The good news: In 2025, I woke up early and regularly worked out before the boys woke up. I also…

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Treasurer Frerichs speaking at a podium with a Bright Start backdrop and a woman and man behind him

Treasurer Frerichs Encourages the Gift of Education This Holiday Season

Struggling to find the right holiday gift for a child? Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs has one. Invest in a young person’s future by contributing to their Bright Start 529 college savings account. “Every time you make a Bright Start contribution, that kid sees that you believe in them. That’s a powerful message to hear from a loved one – you know that they have what it takes to pursue higher education when they finish high school,” Treasurer Frerichs said. “This is a high-impact gift that will mean more to…

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Treasurer Frerichs smiles as he speaks from a podium. Backdrop has the Bright Start logo

Treasurer Frerichs Clinches 7th Gold Rating for Bright Start College Savings Plan

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs announced today that Illinois’ Bright Start 529 College Savings Plan has earned its 7th Gold rating from independent analyst Morningstar, firmly placing the plan among the best in the nation. “To be touted as one of the nation’s best by Morningstar for the seventh time under my watch confirms from an independent source that Illinois’ 529 College Savings plans are a great investment for Illinois families,” Frerichs said. “Since taking office, my priority has been to ensure Illinois families have access to the highest quality…

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Bright Start 529 College Savings logo showing a drawing of a piggy bank

Illinois Treasurer Frerichs Marks Bright Start’s 25th Anniversary with Record Growth during College Savings Month

As Bright Start 529 turns 25, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs is announcing record asset growth to more than $14 billion for Illinois’s flagship 529 college savings plan. The news comes as the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office kicks off College Savings Month, which falls in September. Sponsored and launched by the State of Illinois in the year 2000, the Bright Start 529 College Savings Plan is designed for higher education savings. Treasurer Frerichs also sponsors Bright Directions, a 529 plan for families who prefer to work with a financial advisor.…

Read MoreIllinois Treasurer Frerichs Marks Bright Start’s 25th Anniversary with Record Growth during College Savings Month