Preparing for CollegeAmerica® distributions

log in to client accounts
CollegeAmerica is a nationwide plan sponsored by Virginia 5 2 9.

Get answers to clients’ most common questions about CollegeAmerica distributions and review options for taking distributions.

Generally, qualified education expenses are expenses required for the enrollment or attendance of the beneficiary at an eligible educational institution, which include:

  • Tuition and mandatory fees
  • Required books, supplies and equipment
  • Computers or peripheral equipment (printers)

For a list of qualified expenses, as well as the tax implications of taking a nonqualified distribution, visit CollegeAmerica qualified education expenses. 

Make sure to verify with your firm that you’re permitted to request third-party distributions to colleges or universities.

You’ll need the following:

  • Institution’s name
  • Institution’s billing address (which could be different from the physical address)
  • Beneficiary’s student ID number

Log in to Client Accounts with your Vision credentials to distribute the funds by:

  • Check via USPS (allow 7 to 10 business days)
  • Check via expedited delivery (allow 2 business days)

The distribution will be reported under the beneficiary’s Social Security number.

Yes, as long as the other student is a member of the current beneficiary’s family. If so, the funds must be transferred to the new beneficiary first using the CollegeAmerica Account Change Request so the distribution is reported correctly. Also include the CollegeAmerica Distribution Request to expedite the request.

Learn more about who is considered a member of the family.

Distribution options

Process a distribution online

Most CollegeAmerica distributions to the owner, school or beneficiary can be processed online.

Log in to Client Accounts.

Process a distribution by mail

For distributions that require a signature guarantee, complete this form and submit it by mail.

Complete the CollegeAmerica Distribution Request.

Link bank account for future distributions

To link the owner’s or beneficiary’s bank account for future distributions, complete this form.

Complete the Add/Update Bank Information form.

Explore more on managing CollegeAmerica accounts during tuition season

CollegeAmerica distributions single sheet

Share this single sheet with your clients when they have questions about how to distribute money from their CollegeAmerica accounts.

Get single sheet

CollegeAmerica taxes

Review tax reporting for qualified and nonqualified distributions from CollegeAmerica accounts.

Learn more

Distribution options

Review your clients’ options for taking CollegeAmerica distributions and determine the best fit for their needs.

Learn more

Return to CollegeAmerica 529 >

Contact us

Have questions or need additional support?
Contact us 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday.

(800) 421-0180

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