See how compounding grows your money over time — with or without monthly contributions.
The future value formula is FV = P(1+r/n)^(n·t) plus the future value of an annuity for ongoing contributions. We compute month-by-month so the contribution growth is exact.
Compound interest pays you interest on both your original deposit and the interest you've already earned. The longer the money stays invested, the more this effect snowballs.
It's how often interest is added to the balance. More frequent compounding (daily vs. annually) produces slightly higher returns at the same stated rate.
If you want real purchasing power, use a return rate that is your expected return minus inflation (e.g. 7% nominal minus 3% inflation = 4% real).
Long-run U.S. stock returns have averaged about 7%-10% before inflation, but any given decade can be very different.
No. Past returns don't guarantee the future. Treat the result as a projection, not a promise.
Results are estimates for educational purposes only and are not financial advice. Verify with a qualified professional before making decisions.
Last updated October 2026