530A Growth Calculator
See how your child's $1,000 government deposit could grow by age 18. Adjust the monthly contribution, the fund, and the child's current age to model real scenarios — including how much a lower expense ratio saves over 18 years.
Estimates assume a 7% average annual return. Not a guarantee. All investing involves risk.
Project Your Child's Account Growth
See how much $1,000 could grow by the time your child turns 18.
18 years of growth until age 18
Value at Age 18
$46,957
with FSKAX
Expense Ratio Savings
+$129
vs. higher-fee fund
For illustrative purposes only. Actual returns will vary. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Common questions
What return assumption does this calculator use?
Projections use a 7% average annual return, which is roughly the long-run S&P 500 return after inflation. This is an estimate, not a guarantee — all investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
How much does the expense ratio actually matter?
Over 18 years, the difference between a 0.015% fund and a 0.04% fund is roughly $90 on a $35,000 final balance. Real, but not life-changing. Open the account first and optimize the fund later.
Can I adjust the starting age?
Yes. Use the age slider to model a child who already has an open 530A account. The calculator automatically adjusts the years of compounding remaining before age 18.
Does this include the $1,000 government deposit?
The $1,000 government deposit is the default starting balance. You can change it if you want to model additional starting amounts.