Program Highlights

Everyone likes Options!

With the NC 529 Program, you have a variety of Investment Options with a range of strategies, from conservative to aggressive. You can choose one or more options based on whatever mix meets your investment objectives and risk tolerance.

There are three Vanguard Age-Based Tracks – Aggressive, Moderate, or Conservative. There are 10 other Individual Options -- 9 different Vanguard Portfolios and the Federally-Insured Deposit Account managed by State Employees’ Credit Union.

For greater details and specifics regarding our menu of investment choices, please refer to our Program Description. Beginning on page 29, you'll find each Investment listed with a snapshot including investment objectives and strategies. The three Vanguard Age-Based Tracks are detailed on page 31 including investment horizon based on Beneficiary age.

Contribute what you can, when you can

After opening an Account, you don't have to worry about not being able to make contributions. You can make contributions in a variety of ways with a minimum of only $25. If you have extra money or if money gets tight, you can adjust or cancel your contributions, within Program timeline rules.

  • Make regularly scheduled contributions using any of the following methods:
    • Entry of a monthly or bi-monthly ACH draft on your NC 529 Plan Account
    • Establish payroll deductions if your Employer is a participating provider to any NC 529 Plan Account
    • Use your financial institution bill-payment service so a check can be mailed at the frequency you choose
  • Make a one-time contribution:
    • Entry of a one-time EFT on your NC 529 Plan Account
    • Mailing a check, money order, or cashier's check
    • Wire transfer or EFT initiated via your financial institution transfer services
    • The Program also accepts third-party contributions for processing

Program Highlights

  • The NC 529 Plan is locally administered and serviced at home in Raleigh, North Carolina.
  • The Program is valid nationwide; neither the Participant/Account Owner nor the Beneficiary is required to reside or attend school in North Carolina.
  • The Beneficiary is not required to attend a 4-year college. A Junior College, Vocational/Technical School, Trade School, and Apprenticeship are all considered Qualified Eligible Institutions.
  • The NC 529 Plan does not impose fees for transfers between Beneficiary Accounts.
  • The Maximum allowed aggregate balance for any given Beneficiary is $550,000.
  • The Program accepts Rollovers from all Qualified Tuition Programs including Coverdell Education Savings Accounts or Qualified Savings Bonds (Series EE or I, issued after 1989).

Program Requirements

  • Participant Eligibility - The Program is open to individuals who are at least 18 years old and have a Social Security number or other taxpayer identification number.
  • Beneficiary - The Beneficiary may be an individual, regardless of age and including the Participant, who has a Social Security number or taxpayer identification number. 
  • Only $25 to open an Account (no additional commitment required)

It's important to read the entire Program Description

We understand it's a lot to take in, but all Program information should be reviewed carefully prior to completing your Enrollment Agreement. The Program Description document does change from time to time to reflect changes to the Program. Once you have enrolled, if the Program Description should change or be amended, you will be notified. If you have any questions, reach out to us at 800.600.3453.