Investing FAQs

How do I open a 529 College Savings account?

CollegeCounts 529 Fund*

www.CollegeCounts529.com



An excellent way for investors to save for college. This plan has low fees, solid investment options (Vanguard, PIMCO, Fidelity and T. Rowe Price) and is managed and serviced by Union Bank & Trust, who has consistently been recognized as a provider of leading 529 plans. If you’re looking to save for a loved one’s future college expenses - make sure to check out this 529 plan. The Plan is sponsored by the State of Alabama and Union Bank & Trust serves as Program Manager.



Bright Directions College Savings Plan*

(Illinois Advisor Sold 529)

www.brightdirections.com



Check with your financial advisor on the benefits of the Illinois advisor-sold 529 plan. The plan offers multiple fund families, solid investment choices, along with diversity and choice. For more information on the program along with the federal and Illinois tax benefits, visit this site.

Bright Start College Savings Plan*

(Illinois Direct Sold 529)

https://www.brightstartsavings.com/

The Bright Start Direct-Sold College Savings Program is sponsored by the State of Illinois and administered by the Illinois State Treasurer, as Trustee. Union Bank & Trust Company serves as Program Manager

Investment products: Not FDIC Insured - No Bank Guarantee - May Lose Value.

Can I open one 529 College Savings account for all my children?

No. Each account has only one account owner and one beneficiary. However, you may open separate accounts for as many beneficiaries as you wish, and you may choose a different investment option for each account.  

What are the benefits of a Roth IRA?

The Roth IRA allows you to invest after-tax dollars now, receive the growth of tax-deferred earnings, and have the principal amount tax-free when you take distributions. Plus, your tax-deferred earnings can become tax-free if the account is open for a minimum of 5 years and one of the following events occurs: you are age 59 1/2, you purchase a new home, disability or death.



Roth IRA funds may be withdrawn penalty-free for college education expenses or for the purchase of your first home. In both cases, the funds may be used by the IRA owner, spouse, child or grandchild.

 

Are my investments FDIC insured?

The FDIC does not insure money invested in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, life insurance policies, annuities, or municipal securities, even if you purchased these products from an insured bank.



The FDIC insures all deposits at insured banks, including checking, NOW and savings accounts, money market deposit accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs), up to the insurance limit.



For further information please see FDIC's website at www.FDIC.gov or call our Customer Support Team at 402-323-1777 or toll-free 1-800-297-2837.

Investment products: Not FDIC Insured — No Bank Guarantee — May Lose Value.