Georgia 529 Plan Calculator
2026Calculate 529 college savings plan growth and tax benefits in Georgia. See GA 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 Georgia?
Georgia transitioned from a progressive income tax to a flat rate of 5.39% effective 2025 under HB 1015, with plans to reduce it further to 4.99% by 2029.
Georgia's state minimum wage is $5.15/hr, but since most employers are covered by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act, the federal minimum of $7.25/hr effectively applies to the vast majority of workers.
The state sales tax of 4% is supplemented by local option sales taxes (LOST, SPLOST, ESPLOST) that add 3-4% in most counties, creating combined rates of 7-8%.
Georgia provides its own standard deduction separate from federal amounts. The state has no local income taxes, disability insurance, or paid family leave programs.
Georgia's Homestead Exemption reduces assessed value for owner-occupied primary residences. The average effective property tax rate is approximately 0.87%.
Georgia Tax & Education Facts (2026)
| State Income Tax | 5.39% (flat) |
| 529 State Tax Deduction | Check state plan details |
| State Sales Tax | 4% |
| Avg. Property Tax Rate | 0.87% |
Georgia 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.