@thumper1 I dont mind making some sacrifices for my kids. My parents did for us. I do draw enough salary that tightening the belt will yield about 10K/yr. She is also currently working on additional scholarships. I did say no to ED at schools that were 60K since the outcome of merit would be unknown. Its possible that merit might bring her to affordable range, but we have determined as a family that around 40K is doable. She did not have high enough scores for Alabama for reduced tuition, and nor did she want to attend there. There are other factors in the schools she has chosen .
@twoinanddone thanks for the info. that is what I was trying to figure out. This was not able what I am willing to pay, but how to use the 529 , assets, and salary to maximize the benefits.