#United States #Ascensus #Education Savings #Dresher #529 Plans

Ascensus Achieves $300 Billion Milestone in 529 Plan Assets

In a remarkable demonstration of its leadership in the education savings sector, Ascensus has announced that it has surpassed a staggering $300 billion in total assets under administration for its 529 education savings plans. As of January 12, 2026, the company's success can be attributed to more than 8.5 million accounts that it serves across the United States. This significant achievement reflects the growing participation and contribution trends that characterize the 51 distinct 529 plans managed by Ascensus.

Peg Creonte, President of Government Savings at Ascensus, emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating that it signifies the trust granted by states, families, and partners in the company's ability to efficiently manage these programs. "This achievement is especially notable as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of the 529 plan," she remarked. Ascensus has expressed its appreciation for the commitment of its state partners, recognizing their role in enhancing the use of 529 plans and fostering a more seamless saving experience for families.

The year 2025 marked a significant upswing for Ascensus-administered 529 programs, with over 800,000 new accounts created and contributions exceeding $25 billion. Families contributed more than $1.4 billion through Ugift®, a gifting platform offered by Ascensus, while account holders utilized upwards of $20 billion for qualified education expenses. This robust engagement illustrates the growing awareness and utilization of 529 plans as families prepare for educational needs amid ever-increasing college costs.

Ascensus has established itself as the largest provider of 529 plans in the nation, providing extensive administrative services and support. The firm's independence from asset managers allows for flexible partnerships with states and investment providers, ensuring a focus on participant outcomes and program performance. With a presence in 31 states and Washington DC, Ascensus is dedicated to promoting a culture of saving and investment for education through its comprehensive servicing.

As Ascensus continues to grow, the firm remains committed to its mission of helping individuals save more effectively for their futures. "Our purpose at Ascensus is to help more savers save more," Creonte reiterated. The ongoing collaboration with state partners is poised to drive further growth and impact, ultimately benefiting families looking to secure their educational aspirations.

The 529 education savings accounts, originally introduced in 1996, remain a vital tool for families seeking to mitigate the financial burden of education costs. The introduction of recent legislative changes has expanded the flexibility of these funds, allowing for uses that include K–12 expenses, student loan repayments, and Roth IRA rollovers, leading to smarter financial planning for the future. With heightened awareness and sustained engagement from account holders, Ascensus continues to witness growth in the demand for these education savings solutions.

In addition to managing 529 plans, Ascensus offers administration services for Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) plans and state-sponsored retirement plans, demonstrating its versatility and commitment to supporting economic stability through savings initiatives. For comprehensive information about Ascensus and its array of government savings programs, interested parties can visit ascensus.com.

As Ascensus looks to the future, the leadership in education savings and its continuous adaptation to changing needs reflect a steadfast commitment to fostering a well-prepared generation of scholars. With an impressive portfolio of over $919 billion in assets under administration as of September 30, 2025, and more than 5,000 dedicated associates, Ascensus remains a powerhouse in the savings landscape, aligning the interests of savers, program sponsors, and financial advisors alike.