College Savings Forecaster | 529 Planning Tool

Input Parameters

Define your current status and target goals.

University Destination Type

Child's Current Age (Months)

Current Savings Balance ($)

Monthly Contribution ($)

Compounding Law

Every $100 invested at birth (Age 0) is worth approximately $340 at age 18. Delaying start by just 5 years reduces the final total by 40%. Start early.

17.5 years until enrollment

$44,399

Projected Maturity Balance

17%

Cost Coverage Ratio

Budgeted Target

$257,912

Includes 5.1% Tuition Inflation

Projected Delta (Gap)

$213,513

Additional contribution of $1017/mo required to close gap.

Education Trends

State universities are increasing costs at approx 3x the standard CPI rate. Financial aid is narrowing—self-funding is becoming the elite standard.

529 Tax Advantages

Investing in a 529 plan allows for tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses.

The 18-Year Trajectory.

Tuition is the single largest investment most parents will make outside of home ownership. Preparation is not optional; it's a strategic necessity.

Inflation Delta

A dollar today is worth approximately 40 cents in 2045 adjusted for tuition growth. Nominal numbers are misleading.

Compound Lift

Early entries into the market capture the exponential tail of compounding. The first 5 years drive 50% of the final balance.

Goal Offset

Planning to cover 75% often makes sense—scholarships, student work, and cash flow can cover the 'last mile'.