Investment Calculator
Project an investment balance from a starting amount, regular deposits, and an assumed return.
Contributions are deposited at month end. Returns, fees, and taxes may differ in practice.
Growth over time
Ending value share
Annual investment schedule
| Year | Total contributed | Growth | Ending value |
|---|
Detailed Breakdown
Inputs
Enter the amount invested today, planned monthly deposits, annual return assumption, and investment length. Deposits are modeled at each month end.
Growth calculation
The annual return is converted to an equivalent monthly rate. The calculator applies monthly growth to the balance, then adds the contribution. Ending value equals starting value plus deposits and accumulated growth.
Reading the result
Starting amount is the initial balance; contributions are later deposits; estimated growth is ending balance minus all contributed principal. The chart compares projected value with total deposits.
Assumptions and limits
The return stays constant in the model. Real investments fluctuate; fees, taxes, inflation, withdrawals, and timing differences are excluded. Compare several scenarios rather than treating the result as guaranteed.
Examples
Start with 10,000, contribute 200 each month, and choose a 6% annual return assumption for 20 years. The projection compounds the starting balance and month-end deposits; actual investments will not earn a steady guaranteed return.
FAQ
Are contributions made at the beginning or end of the month?
The model assumes month-end deposits, so a deposit begins earning in the next period.
Does the estimate include taxes or fees?
No. The result is before taxes, fees, inflation, and withdrawals unless separately reflected in your assumptions.
Can the return be negative?
Actual returns can be negative, but this calculator's entered return assumptions may have a restricted range. Treat the projection as a scenario, not a prediction.
Related Calculators
- Compound Interest Calculator — compare compounding rates.
- Future Value Calculator — solve a future value with periodic deposits.
- Retirement Calculator — estimate a retirement savings path.
Internal links: compare return assumptions with the Compound Interest Calculator or model a retirement horizon with the Retirement Calculator.