Loading calculator…
What this calculator does
Project how savings or investments can grow when returns are reinvested.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the starting balance, rate, timeframe, compounding, and deposits.
- Review the calculation assumptions before using the result.
- Review total contributions separately from investment growth.
How to calculate
Enter the initial balance, rate, term, and compounding frequency, then configure recurring deposits, their timing, and annual growth. The growth rate applies from the first investment year.
Worked example
The initial balance and each growing deposit are compounded separately before being combined into the final balance.
Understanding your result
Review total contributions separately from investment growth.
- Investment returns are not guaranteed.
- Double-check values and units before calculating.
Investment returns are illustrative, before fees and taxes, and not guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
What does this compound interest calculator do?
Project how savings or investments can grow when returns are reinvested.
How do I use this compound interest calculator?
Enter the starting balance, rate, timeframe, compounding, and deposits.
What does the result mean?
Review total contributions separately from investment growth.
What should I check before relying on it?
Investment returns are not guaranteed.
Does compounding frequency matter more than the interest rate?
No — the interest rate and the length of time invested have a much larger effect on the final balance than compounding frequency. Switching from annual to monthly compounding typically changes the result far less than changing the rate or the number of years.
How much difference does starting 10 years earlier make?
Often a large one, because each extra year of compounding builds on an already-larger balance. Try lowering the term by 10 years with the same rate and deposits to see the actual gap for your own numbers — it usually outweighs the gain from a slightly higher rate.
Does this account for taxes or inflation?
No. The projection shows nominal growth before any taxes on investment earnings and before adjusting for inflation, which reduces the real purchasing power of the future balance.