New Jersey 529 Plan Calculator
2026Calculate 529 college savings plan growth and tax benefits in New Jersey. See NJ 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 New Jersey?
New Jersey has 7 tax brackets for single filers (1.4% to 10.75%) and 8 brackets for married/head of household filers (1.4% to 10.75%). The top rate applies to income over $1 million.
New Jersey repealed its estate tax effective January 1, 2018, but still imposes an inheritance tax. Rates are 0% for spouses and direct descendants, 11-16% for siblings (first $25,000 exempt), and 15-16% for other heirs.
New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) rate is 0.23% of wages, and Family Leave Insurance (FLI) rate is 0.33% of wages for 2025. Benefits pay 85% of average weekly wages up to $1,081/week.
New Jersey has the highest average effective property tax rate in the nation at approximately 2.23%, with some municipalities exceeding 3%.
The state sales tax of 6.625% does not apply to most food, clothing, or prescription drugs. Urban Enterprise Zones offer reduced 3.3125% sales tax rates.
New Jersey Tax & Education Facts (2026)
| State Income Tax | progressive (up to 10.75%) |
| 529 State Tax Deduction | Check state plan details |
| State Sales Tax | 6.63% |
| Avg. Property Tax Rate | 2.23% |
New Jersey 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.