The cost of Up$tart to colleges and universities is exceeded during the first year of acquisition. Assuming increased student retention of 5 percent at an average social benefit increase of $3,297/year, participating institutions recover the costs of Up$tart in the first year.

By complementing FAFSA with EITC and SNAP applications, communities and states in which students reside benefit as well. Assuming a $3,297/year per student income increase by bundling benefits, Up$tart generates significant income for localities and states, typically in the tens of millions of dollars.