Investment Calculator
Project an investment balance using an assumed return.
What this investment calculator does
Estimate the future value of an investment using a starting balance, recurring contributions, assumed return and time horizon.
How to use the calculator
Use several scenarios rather than treating one return assumption as guaranteed. Try conservative, middle and optimistic assumptions and compare how contribution size and time affect the result.
How the calculation works
The calculator compounds the starting balance and recurring contributions at the selected periodic rate over the specified number of periods. Contributions are modeled as regular additions according to the calculator’s selected schedule.
What the result means
Example: starting with $10,000 and adding $100 per month at an assumed 5% annual return illustrates how contributions and compounding work together.
Important assumptions and limitations
Investment projections are hypothetical. They do not account for every tax, fee, inflation effect or market outcome and should not be interpreted as a promise of future returns.
Frequently asked questions
No. The annual return is an assumption used to create a projection. Actual investment performance can be higher or lower.
Yes. The model adds the entered contribution at the end of each month.
No. Management fees, fund expenses, taxes and transaction costs are outside this simplified projection.
Longer periods give compounding more time to act on both the original balance and accumulated growth.
Related calculators
More tools in Money.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly mortgage payment, interest, tax and insurance.
Loan Calculator
Calculate fixed-rate loan payments and total interest.
Compound Interest Calculator
Project growth with compound interest and recurring contributions.
Savings Calculator
See how regular savings can grow over time.