To learn more about the Bright Start Direct-Sold College Savings Program, its investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses see the Plan Description at BrightStart.com. Read it carefully. Investments in the Plan are neither insured nor guaranteed (except as provided in the Plan Description solely with respect to the FDIC-insured Bank Savings Underlying Investment) and there is the risk of investment loss. The Bright Start Direct-Sold College Savings Program is sponsored by the State of Illinois and administered by the Illinois State Treasurer, as Trustee. TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC, member FINRA, distributor and underwriter for the Bright Start Direct-Sold College Savings Program. Check with your home state to learn if it offers tax or other benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds or protection from creditors for investing in its own 529 plan.

An individual who files an individual Illinois state income tax return will be able to deduct up to $10,000 per tax year (up to $20,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint Illinois state income tax return) for their total, combined contributions to the Bright Start Direct-Sold College Savings Program, the Bright Directions Advisor-Guided 529 College Savings Program, and College Illinois during that tax year. The $10,000 (individual) and $20,000 (joint) limit on deductions will apply to total contributions made without regard to whether the contributions are made to a single account or more than one account. The amount of any deduction previously taken for Illinois income tax purposes is added back to Illinois taxable income in the event an Account Owner makes a Nonqualified Withdrawal from an Account or if such assets are rolled over to a non-Illinois 529 plan. If Illinois tax rates have increased since the original contribution, the additional tax liability may exceed the tax savings from the deduction. Consult your legal or tax professional for tax advice.