CollegeBacker

Backer helps you save more for college by allowing family and friends to contribute to your child's education fund. Studies show that having a college fund improves educational outcomes, and Backer amplifies this by having your network chip in. Parents tend to contribute more when they have a team of supporters, making it easier to reach your savings goals.

Anyone you invite by sharing your unique fund link can join as a backer and contribute gifts. This includes grandparents, uncles, aunts, family friends, and even mentors from school or other activities.

Backer offers simple, transparent pricing with a monthly membership. For detailed pricing information, you should check out their pricing page. Additionally, backers pay a $1.99 transaction fee per gift, plus any applicable card processing fees.

Backer uses strong browser encryption, secure servers monitored 24/7/365, and advanced identity verification services to protect your personal information. They also have clear privacy procedures in place. For more details, you can review their Privacy Notice.

If you leave Backer, you can keep the 529 plan they helped you open or roll it over to another provider. However, you will lose access to Backer's website, mobile apps, fund page for backers, contribution history, and other features. Backer welcomes feedback and will always allow you to return if you change your mind.

A 529 plan is a government-sponsored program designed to help families save for education-related expenses, such as K-12 tuition, college, vocational training, and apprenticeship programs. It allows your money to grow and be withdrawn tax-free for educational purposes. Backer helps you invest in a 529 plan to maximize your savings.

Backers can contribute by linking their bank account, using a credit or debit card, or digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. They pay a $1.99 transaction fee per gift, plus any applicable card processing fees. Backer also sends reminders around holidays and birthdays to encourage contributions.