College Planning
Preparing for tomorrow's education costs is easier the earlier you start. We help you understand the funding options and how they align with your family's goals.
Model Your Scenario
Why this calculation matters: Education costs have historically risen faster than general inflation. Comparing your projected 529 balance against future tuition — inflated forward — shows whether you're on track to cover the bill or have a gap to close with more saving or different timing.
Interactive College Funding Estimator
Educational tool to compare 529 plan growth against projected tuition costs.
13 years until college begins.
Tuition is projected forward at an assumed 5% annual education inflation rate.
Estimated value when college begins at age 18.
*For educational purposes only. Assumes constant contributions and returns; actual results vary with markets, inflation, tax treatment, and personal circumstances.
Build a College Plan with MarkistWhat the result means
The projected 529 balance is what your savings could grow to by college age. The projected tuition is the future cost inflated at an assumed education-inflation rate. A shortfall means increasing contributions, starting earlier, or adjusting the plan can help close it.
Recommended next step
Bring your estimate to a consultation. We'll review 529 and other funding options, coordinate education savings with your retirement plan, and tailor a strategy to your family's timeline.
Carries your scenario summary to the consultation form — no sensitive data.
Who this is for
Parents and grandparents of young children, and families balancing education savings alongside retirement and other goals. The earlier you start, the more compounding helps.
Planning considerations
- Overview of common education-funding vehicles (529 plans, education savings accounts, structured policies)
- How saving early and compounding can dramatically affect long-term education outcomes
- Coordinating education goals with your broader family budget and retirement goals
Why starting early matters so much
Because of compounding, a dollar saved when a child is young has far more time to grow than a dollar saved when they're a teenager. Even modest monthly contributions started early can outsize larger contributions started late — time, not just amount, drives the outcome.
Balancing college and retirement
You can borrow for education, but not for retirement. A sound plan funds both without sacrificing either — coordinating education savings alongside retirement contributions so one goal doesn't quietly crowd out the other.
Common Questions
What is a 529 plan?
A 529 is a tax-advantaged education savings plan. Earnings can grow tax-deferred and qualified withdrawals for education expenses are generally tax-free. Tax treatment and benefits vary by state, so it's worth reviewing how it applies to you.
What if my child doesn't go to college?
529 plans have flexibility — funds can often be used for qualified K-12 expenses, certain student loan repayment, or transferred to another eligible family member. Rules change, so a review helps you understand current options.
How much should I save?
It depends on your timeline, the type of school you're planning for, and your other goals. The estimator above models a scenario; a personal review helps you set a realistic monthly target.
Ready to talk about college planning?
Schedule a no-obligation consultation and we'll walk through what fits your goals — in plain language, on your timeline.