How to Ask for 529 Plan Contributions This Holiday Season. And Feel Great About It

- min read

The holidays are a season for giving, and few gifts are more meaningful than those that can help a child succeed in the future. Yet, for many parents, asking friends or family to contribute to their child’s 529 education savings plan can feel awkward.

It shouldn’t.

The truth is, most people want to give something that lasts. Research from Fidelity Investments shows that nearly 90% of grandparents would contribute to a 529 plan if asked. With The Education Plan®, it’s simple for friends and family to give a contribution to a loved one’s 529 plan.

If you have been hesitating to bring it up, this is the perfect time. The holidays offer a natural opportunity to start the conversation in a positive and motivating way.

1. Start with the People Who Care Most

Begin by reaching out to your inner circle, including grandparents, godparents, aunts, uncles, and close friends who love your child. Whether you share your request through a short email, a holiday card insert, or a phone call, explain why contributions to your child’s 529 plan with The Education Plan are meaningful.

You might want to:

Encourage a lifelong love of learning
Teach your child the value of saving early
Reduce clutter and waste from material gifts
Offer loved ones a way to make a real difference
When you explain your reasons, it helps others feel connected to your goals. You’re not asking for money. You’re giving them a chance to participate in your child’s growth and success.

2. Add It to the Holiday Wish List

When relatives ask what your child wants for the holidays, have an answer ready. Put a contribution to The Education Plan right at the top of your child’s list.

You can even include their unique UGift® link, which allows family and friends to give directly into the 529 account. It is fast, safe, and easy—no checks or wrapping paper required.

You might say:

“We’re saving for future education through The Education Plan and would love your help growing [child’s name]’s account. Even a small gift can make a big impact.”

A simple, confident message makes the idea of giving feel natural and rewarding.

3. Explain That Every Gift Grows

Many people assume college savings require large amounts of money. The reality is that small contributions today can grow significantly over time.

With The Education Plan, contributions can start at just $25 through UGift. Those funds have the potential to grow tax-free and help cover future education costs, including tuition, books, or vocational training.

You might say:

“A $25 or $50 contribution may not seem like much, but invested through The Education Plan, it can grow into meaningful support for [child’s name]’s education.”

This helps people see the long-term value of their contribution instead of comparing it to the price of a typical holiday present.

4. Combine It with a Small, Tangible Gift

There’s no way around it. Kids love unwrapping presents. Keep the fun of the season alive by pairing a 529 contribution with a small physical gift. Some ideas include:

A storybook about dreams and possibilities
A stuffed animal with a “college fund” tag
A set of art supplies or educational toys

This balance keeps the joy of giving alive while reinforcing the importance of saving for the future.

6. Keep the Spirit of Giving Going

Saving for education doesn’t have to stop after the holidays. The Education Plan makes it easy to share your child’s 529 account link year-round for birthdays, graduations, and other special occasions.

Contributions to The Education Plan may also qualify for state tax advantages, giving families even more reasons to continue saving throughout the year. Every contribution, large or small, helps build a stronger foundation for your child’s future.