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Secure Your Child’s College Dreams with CalKids

CalKids College Savings Program

 

Para Español

What is CalKids?

CalKids is California’s innovative, state-funded 529 college savings program. It helps families, especially low-income households, invest in their children's future. Eligible recipients can receive up to a $500 contribution from the State of California. CalKids simplifies the process of starting a college savings account, ensuring every child has a fair chance at success. This program is a critical resource for securing your child’s educational dreams and making college savings accessible for all California families.

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CalKids Infographic - Up to $500 or More, Simple and Hassle-Free, Start Saving Early

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How CalKids Works

Starting your child’s California college savings journey with a CalKids account is simple and automatic. Here's how it works:

  1. Automatic Enrollment: Eligible California children are automatically enrolled in the state-funded 529 plan.
  2. $500 Starter Fund: The state provides up to a $500 contribution to kickstart your child’s college savings.
  3. Build the Future: You can add to the savings anytime to further secure their educational goals.

Claim Your CalKids Account

Want to get started? Click the button below!

Claim Account

 

Video Tutorial for Claiming Your Account

How to Link a ScholarShare 529 Account

  • ScholarShare 529: California’s college savings plan with tax advantages for qualified higher education expenses.
  • Link Your Accounts: Connect your CalKIDS account with a new or existing ScholarShare 529 to consolidate and grow savings.
  • Family Contributions: ScholarShare 529 allows friends and family to easily contribute to your child’s education fund.

Linking your accounts is quick and easy. Here's how...

Step 1: Claim a CalKIDS account
Step 2: Open a ScholarShare 529 account
Step 3: Log in to CalKIDS and link accounts

Click below to watch a video tutorial on how to link the accounts.
English  |  Spanish

Fast Facts Flyer

This flyer summarizes the most important details about the CalKIDS program.
English  |  Spanish

Testimonials

Quote on a light blue background: "I used the money to sign up for an online course not affiliated with my school but was really helpful for my major. I was able to connect with lots of talented people in the field from all over the world. Without this money, I couldn't get this extra opportunity to network with people and learn such valuable things that my school doesn't teach." Vanessa, UC Santa Cruz

Quote on light blue background: "I was excited and relieved. The money made a difference by taking away some of the financial burden college brings." Alicia, Monterey Peninsula College

Quote on light blue background: "The whole among I received from CalKIDS went towards the tuition costs to study at my school of choice. While many wouldn't see it as a lot of money, it was a big help to me going into school understanding that the tuition bill would have to be paid by me as my parents didn't have the financial means to do it for me. The money just really helped to ease my mind a little more and relieve some of the stress of paying for college." Brenda, UC Merced

In the News

  • “This state program could help make college a reality for your child” — San Jose Spotlight | Read Online
  • “Cash for kids…”—Spectrum | Read Online
  • “How California parents can access CalKIDS funds” — LA Times | Read Online
  • “California’s new college savings program to help millions of kids save for higher education” — KCRA 3 | Read Online
  • “California is giving millions of kids up to $1,500 for college or career training. Here’s how to get it” — Capitol Public Radio | Read Online
  • “California Officially Launches Nation’s Largest College Savings Program for Millions of Students and All Newborns” — Governor Newsom | Read Online

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that saving for college can be a big decision. Here are some of the most common questions we receive about CalKids.

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Disclaimer: CalKids is a state-sponsored program to help families save for future educational expenses. Visit the website for full terms and conditions.