Bright Directions (Advisor-Sold)

The Bright Directions Advisor-Guided 529 College Savings Program in Illinois offers unique features to assist families in saving for education expenses. Managed by Union Bank & Trust Company, this plan provides personalized guidance from financial advisors to help account holders navigate their investment choices. It offers a variety of investment options, including age-based portfolios and individual fund choices, allowing for customization based on risk tolerance and investment preferences. The plan also provides potential state tax benefits for Illinois residents, including income tax deductions on contributions, adding to its appeal. Moreover, the Bright Directions Advisor-Guided 529 plan offers convenient online account management.

Enroll

State Tax Incentive

$10,000 single / $20,000 joint beneficiary

Program Manager

UBT

Investment Manager(s)

Vanguard, Blackrock, Fidelity, DFA, T. Rowe Price

Plan type

Advisor

Investments

Guided Investments

age-based and target-enrollment-portfolios

ESG Investments

No

Avg. expense fee

0.455%

Fee Range

0.16%-0.68%

Ratings

Backer Rating

Our rating is based on fees and tax savings advantages.

65%

for IL residents

39%

non-residents

Saving For College

Unbiased, independent resource for parents.

4.5

for IL residents

4

non-residents

Morningstar Rating

Once a year, the financial services firm Morningstar releases its 529 ratings.

Bronze

Other

Connect with Mint.com

Track your finances in one place.

No

Connect with Backer

Full end to end enrollment, gifting and plan management.

Gifting Only

Mobile app

Backer App covers this plan.

No

General Recommendation

This is an advisor sold 529 plan, rated as bronze by Morningstar.