Hawaii 529 Plan
HI529
Morningstar NeutralQuick Facts
- Expense Ratio
- 0.72%
- Fee Range
- 0.25% - 1.45% annual fees
- Tax Benefit Type
- None
- Deduction Limit (Single / Married)
- None / None
- State Marginal Tax Rate
- 8.25%
- Carryforward
- None
- Income Limits
- No
- Any-State Deduction
- No
Should You Use Hawaii's 529 Plan?
Hawaii does not offer a state tax deduction or credit for 529 plan contributions. Since there is no in-state tax advantage, you are free to choose the lowest-cost plan nationally. The best approach is to compare expense ratios across top-rated plans.
Utah my529 (0.13% expense ratio, Gold rated) and Nevada Vanguard (0.14% expense ratio) are strong alternatives. Focus on total fees over the life of the account, since those savings compound over an 18-year horizon.
Hawaii vs. Utah my529
Utah my529 is a commonly recommended low-cost reference plan. Here is how HI529 compares.
| HI529 | Utah my529 | |
|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.72% | 0.13% |
| Morningstar Rating | neutral | gold |
| Tax Benefit | No state tax deduction or credit for 529 contributions | 5% tax credit on contributions up to $2,290 |
| Fee Range | 0.25% - 1.45% annual fees | 0.17% - 0.64% annual fees |
| Investments | Age-based and static portfolios | Vanguard age-based and individual funds |
How to Open HI529
You can open an account directly through the plan's website. You will need your Social Security number, the beneficiary's Social Security number, and your bank account information for funding contributions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaii's 529 plan?
Hawaii's 529 plan is called HI529. It is a tax-advantaged college savings account that allows you to invest money for qualified education expenses. Earnings grow tax-free at the federal level, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed.
Does Hawaii offer a 529 tax deduction?
No. Hawaii does not offer a state tax deduction or credit for 529 contributions. This means there is no tax advantage to using the in-state plan, and you may want to compare lower-cost out-of-state alternatives.
Is Hawaii's 529 plan worth it?
Without a state tax deduction, the decision comes down to fees and investment quality. HI529 has an expense ratio of 0.72%. If a lower-cost plan is available (e.g., Utah my529 at 0.13%), the fee savings will compound over time and likely make the out-of-state option the better choice.
Can I use an out-of-state 529 plan in Hawaii?
Yes. You can open a 529 plan in any state, regardless of where you live. The funds can be used for qualified education expenses at any accredited institution nationwide.
What is the expense ratio for Hawaii's 529 plan?
The HI529 has an expense ratio of approximately 0.72% for the age-based portfolio option. The full fee range across all investment options is 0.25% - 1.45% annual fees. For comparison, Utah my529 charges approximately 0.13%.