Bright Start named one of the top five plans in the nation by Morningstar, Inc.

Bright Start, Illinois' tax-free savings plan, had been named one of the top five plans in the nation by Morningstar, Inc.

Bright Start was created in 2000 to create a way for Illinois families to save money for college through the state government.There are currently $2.5 billion in assets and more than 160,000 accounts. The program offers a 529 savings plan.

No taxes are paid on savings or on money spent on college fees. In addition, the money saved is also state tax deductible.
Many institutions have taken notice of the revisions the Bright Start program has undergone. The Wall Street Journal describes the plan as one of the top-tier savings plans due to its "higher rated funds and rock-bottom expenses."

Plans like the Bright Start 529 plan outperform traditional savings plans over long time periods, and such plans can be started with as little as $25. With the addition of options such as direct deposit and online account management, it is very easy to grow and keep track of investments.