Delaware 529 Plan Calculator
2026Calculate 529 college savings plan growth and tax benefits in Delaware. See DE state tax deduction availability, contribution limits, and projected education savings for 2026.
By Konstantin Iakovlev · Updated
Total College Cost
$176,766.87
With 4% inflation
Projected Savings
$58,861.83
Funding
33%
Funding Gap
$117,905.04
Monthly Needed to Fully Fund
$750.77
529 Plan Projection
| Years Until College | 13 years |
| Total College Cost (with inflation) | $176,766.87 |
| Current Balance | $0.00 |
| Total Contributions | $39,000.00 |
| Investment Growth | + $19,861.83 |
| Projected Savings at College | $58,861.83 |
| Funding Gap | $117,905.04 |
| Monthly Contribution Needed | $750.77 |
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.
How does a 529 plan work in Delaware?
Delaware has no state sales tax, making it a popular shopping destination for residents of neighboring states. The state generates significant revenue from corporate franchise taxes and the lottery instead.
Delaware's income tax brackets have not been adjusted for inflation in decades, resulting in most taxpayers reaching the top 6.6% rate relatively quickly at just $60,001 of taxable income.
The Wilmington city wage tax of 1.25% applies to all workers in the city, adding a local tax layer that is unusual for Delaware. No other Delaware locality levies an income or wage tax.
Delaware's minimum wage reached $15.00/hr in 2025, following incremental increases enacted in 2023 legislation. Tipped employees receive $2.23/hr.
Delaware is known as a corporate haven due to its business-friendly Court of Chancery and low corporate filing fees. More than 60% of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in Delaware.
Delaware Tax & Education Facts (2026)
| State Income Tax | progressive (up to 6.6000000000000005%) |
| 529 State Tax Deduction | Check state plan details |
| State Sales Tax | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax Rate | 0.53% |
Delaware 529 plan — frequently asked questions
What can 529 plan funds be used for?
Qualified expenses include college tuition, room and board, books, supplies, computers, and required equipment. Up to $10,000/year can also be used for K-12 tuition. Up to $35,000 lifetime can be rolled to a Roth IRA for the beneficiary.
What are the tax benefits of a 529 plan?
Earnings grow tax-free and withdrawals for qualified education expenses are tax-free. Over 30 states also offer a state income tax deduction or credit for contributions.
What happens to a 529 plan if my child does not go to college?
You can change the beneficiary to another family member, use it for trade schools or apprenticeship programs, roll up to $35,000 into a Roth IRA (after 15 years), or withdraw the funds with a 10% penalty plus taxes on earnings.