Investment calculator

Investment Calculator

How to use: Enter your starting amount, monthly deposit, expected yearly return, years and an inflation rate to see future value and its value in today’s dollars.

How the investment calculator works

This investment calculator grows your starting amount and monthly deposits at the yearly return you choose, compounded monthly. It also adjusts the final number for inflation, so you can see what the money could buy in today’s dollars and not only the headline figure.

Example

Start with $10,000, add $500 a month and earn 7% a year for 20 years. You would put in $130,000 and end with about $300,800. With 2.5% inflation, that is worth about $183,600 in today’s buying power.

Keep expectations realistic

Returns are not guaranteed and change from year to year. Fees reduce what you keep, and taxes may apply outside retirement accounts. Try a low, middle and high return to see a range. For a version without inflation, use the compound interest calculator.

Frequently asked questions

What return should I use?

Long-term stock market averages are often quoted at 7% to 10% before inflation, but they are not a promise. A cautious plan might use 4% to 6%.

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Estimates for education only, not financial advice.