September proclaimed as College Savings Month across Wisconsin
Sep 17, 2026, 3:00 PM ET
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Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) have proclaimed September as College Savings Month across Wisconsin. The proclamation encourages students and families throughout the state to start or continue saving for higher education and career training through the Wisconsin 529 College Savings Program, which features both the direct-sold Edvest 529 plan and the advisor-sold Tomorrow’s Scholar plan.
Governor Evers highlighted that the state’s continued economic success depends on the success of its students, from early childhood through higher education and technical training. Funds saved in Wisconsin 529 accounts can be utilized nationwide and at eligible international institutions for undergraduate and graduate programs, community colleges, technical schools, and professional schools. Covered expenses include tuition, housing, food, required fees, books, technology, and specialized services for beneficiaries with special needs.
Additionally, Wisconsin taxpayers can apply 529 savings toward registered apprenticeship programs, postsecondary credential programs, K-12 education expenses up to $20,000 annually per beneficiary, and student loan repayments up to a $10,000 lifetime limit. DFI Secretary Wendy K. Baumann emphasized that even small, consistent contributions can grow over time to make higher education and vocational training more affordable.
Contributions to Wisconsin 529 accounts offer significant tax advantages, growing free from state and federal income taxes, with tax-free withdrawals for qualified expenses. Wisconsin taxpayers can also claim a state income tax deduction on contributions up to $5,280 per beneficiary for single filers or joint tax return filers, and $2,640 for married individuals filing separately. Any Wisconsin taxpayer contributing to an account can claim this deduction, making gift contributions an attractive option for family and friends using online platforms such as Ugift.
To mark College Savings Month, DFI is hosting free Edvest 529 webinars on September 23 and October 8 at 11 a.m. Central Time. Furthermore, Wisconsin employers can participate in the Edvest at Work workplace financial wellness program at no cost, allowing them to support employee college savings efforts while potentially earning state tax credits up to $840 per contributing employee. For more details, families and employers can visit Edvest.com, 529wi.voya.com, or contact DFI directly.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
