529 College Savings Calculator 2026
Calculate how much to save each month to cover projected college costs. Accounts for tuition inflation and investment growth over your savings horizon.
529 Plan Tips to Maximize Your Savings
Start as early as possible. For a newborn, 18 years of compounding does most of the work — $300/month for 18 years at 7% is $117,000, but the same $300/month started at age 8 only grows to $50,000.
Use age-based portfolios. Most 529 plans offer age-based options that automatically shift from aggressive (stocks) to conservative (bonds/cash) as college approaches. This prevents a market downturn in the year before college from devastating your balance.
Check your state's tax deduction. Over 30 states offer a state income tax deduction or credit for 529 contributions. In a state with a 5% income tax and a $10,000 deduction cap, contributing $10,000/year saves $500 upfront — a guaranteed 5% return before investment gains.
Grandparent contributions. Since 2024, grandparent-owned 529s no longer impact financial aid (FAFSA change). Grandparents can superfund ($90,000 one-time) without gift tax. This is one of the most efficient wealth transfer strategies available.