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What to Do With Extra Funds in Your Backpack Account

Learn how to use leftover Backpack funds for future education expenses and how to re-contribute funds back to a 529 plan.

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Can I put the money back into my 529 plan?

Yes, families can re-contribute funds back into a 529 plan within 60 days of the original withdrawal.

Each 529 plan handles re-contributions differently:

  • Some plans have a dedicated “re-contribution” process

  • Others simply ask you to follow the normal contribution workflow

To complete a re-contribution, log in to your 529 plan’s portal and enter your Backpack account number and routing number so the plan can pull in the funds.

Your Backpack account number and routing number can be found on your Dashboard when you log in to your Backpack account (https://app.backpackpay.com/login).

What if I do not want to recontribute my funds?

If you choose not to return the funds, you can keep them in Backpack and use them for qualified education expenses such as textbooks, supplies, housing, groceries, and other eligible costs. Payments can be made directly using your Backpack account details.

Does the money need to go through the school?

No. Backpack funds do not need to go through the school. You can pay qualified expenses directly from the Backpack account.

Can my student access or use the funds?

Yes. Your student can use the same Backpack account and routing number to pay providers directly for qualified education expenses.

Most families choose…

Most families simply leave the remaining balance in Backpack and use it for upcoming educational costs.

Need help?

If you have any questions about your 529 plan’s process or need help locating your Backpack account details, please contact [email protected].

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