College Savings Quick Projector
Calculate what your savings may be worth when your child starts college, and compare using a tax-free account (such as a state 529 plan) vs. a taxable account.
Future Lump Sum
This calculator provides for a lump sum amount that you anticipate will be added to your child's savings at some time in the future. Enter the amount expected here, and enter the number of years until it will be added to the account on the next line.
Rate of Return
The college planning tool uses the specified hypothetical fixed average annual rate of return to estimate hypothetical earrings on education savings.
Note: Investments that tend to earn a higher rate of return in the long run may be more subject to changes in value. There is no guarantee that you will receive the rate of return that you use in your model.
Marginal Federal Tax Rate
Your Marginal Federal Tax Rate is the rate at which the IRS taxes your last dollar of income. Federal tax rates vary from 10% to 37%. For guidance in estimating your federal income tax rate, check your most recent federal income tax forms, or use the following 2018 rates:
Filing Status | Income Up To |
Income Up To |
Income Up To |
Income Up To |
Income Up To |
Income Up To |
Income Over |
Single | $9,525 | $38,700 | $82,500 | $157,500 | $200,000 | $500,000 | $500,000 |
Married filing jointly or qualifying widower |
$19,050 | $77,400 | $165,000 | $315,000 | $400,000 | $600,000 | $600,000 |
Married filing separately | $9,525 | $38,700 | $82,500 | $157,000 | $200,000 | $300,000 | $300,000 |
Head of Household |
$13,600 | $51,800 | $82,500 | $157,500 | $200,000 | $500,000 | $500,000 |
Tax Rate | 10% | 12% | 22% | 24% | 32% | 35% | 37% |
State Tax Rate
State income tax rates vary from 0% to 11% of earned income. Check your most recent state tax return for the rates used in your state.