How to use the investment calculator
- Enter starting balance, monthly contribution, expected annual return, and years.
- Monthly compounding, end-of-month deposits—read ending balance, total contributions, and interest earned.
- Use presets, then edit; schedules and inflation: compound interest calculator.
Vs future value and compound interest
Same TVM family as the future value and present value tools. Irregular project flows: IRR and NPV.
Return assumption
Planning rate only—pre-tax, pre-fee, level monthly deposits, no withdrawals.
Frequently asked questions
How is this different from the future value calculator?
Both use monthly compounding with end-of-month deposits. This page targets investment intent; for TVM labels use future value or present value; schedules and inflation: compound interest.
What return should I enter?
Enter a planning assumption—not a guarantee. Actual markets vary around any constant rate.
Starting balance zero with only monthly saves?
Yes. Set starting balance to 0 and a positive monthly contribution.
Taxes and fees included?
No. Results are pre-tax and pre-fee for a clear growth picture.
Must monthly contributions stay fixed?
This page assumes level monthly deposits. For uneven flows or withdrawals, use the compound interest calculator schedule.
How should I read interest earned?
Ending balance minus total contributions (starting plus deposits) is labeled interest earned in the model.
Good for retirement planning?
Fine as a starting point; use retirement or 401(k) tools for withdrawals and employer match.
Can I share this scenario with someone?
Yes. Copy link below the form keeps your current inputs so you can share the scenario or save it for later.