College Savings Calculator
College Savings Calculator
College savings plans (like 529 accounts in the US) let money grow tax-advantaged toward future education costs. This calculator accounts for a starting balance already saved, then solves for the monthly contribution needed to close the gap to your target by the time your child starts college.
Parents planning ahead use this to convert a future tuition estimate into an actionable monthly savings number, adjusting as college cost estimates or investment performance change over time.
- Accounts for a Head Start: Unlike a from-zero goal calculator, this factors in savings you already have, reducing the required monthly amount.
- Time Is Your Biggest Ally: Starting when a child is young dramatically lowers the monthly contribution needed versus starting a few years before enrollment.
- Revisit Periodically: College cost inflation and investment returns both shift over time — recalculate every year or two to stay on track.
What if the target amount changes as college gets closer?
Recalculate with an updated target — college cost estimates typically rise over time, so periodic check-ins help avoid a large shortfall discovered too late.
What return should I assume for a 529 plan?
Most 529 plans use age-based portfolios that grow more conservative as college approaches — a blended long-term estimate of 5-7% is common for younger children's accounts.
College Savings Calculator
College savings plans (like 529 accounts in the US) let money grow tax-advantaged toward future education costs. This calculator accounts for a starting balance already saved, then solves for the monthly contribution needed to close the gap to your target by the time your child starts college.
Parents planning ahead use this to convert a future tuition estimate into an actionable monthly savings number, adjusting as college cost estimates or investment performance change over time.
- Accounts for a Head Start: Unlike a from-zero goal calculator, this factors in savings you already have, reducing the required monthly amount.
- Time Is Your Biggest Ally: Starting when a child is young dramatically lowers the monthly contribution needed versus starting a few years before enrollment.
- Revisit Periodically: College cost inflation and investment returns both shift over time — recalculate every year or two to stay on track.
What if the target amount changes as college gets closer?
Recalculate with an updated target — college cost estimates typically rise over time, so periodic check-ins help avoid a large shortfall discovered too late.
What return should I assume for a 529 plan?
Most 529 plans use age-based portfolios that grow more conservative as college approaches — a blended long-term estimate of 5-7% is common for younger children's accounts.