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Investment Return Calculator

Estimate how your investment could grow over time using an initial amount, regular contributions, expected annual return and time horizon.

Your Details

Overview

This investment return calculator helps you estimate how much an investment could be worth over time. Enter your initial investment, monthly contribution, expected annual return and investment term to see projected growth and total value.

How it works

The calculator estimates growth using compound interest. It grows your initial investment over the full term and adds the future value of regular monthly contributions using the expected annual return converted to a monthly rate. The final result combines both parts to show your estimated ending balance.

How to use this calculator

  1. 1Enter your starting investment amount.
  2. 2Add the amount you expect to contribute each month.
  3. 3Enter your expected annual return rate.
  4. 4Set your investment term in years.
  5. 5Review the estimated final balance, total contributions and projected growth.

Example Calculation

Initial investment

$10,000

Monthly contribution

$500

Expected annual return

7%

Investment term

20

Compounding frequency

monthly

Estimated final balance

$300,851

If you start with $10,000, contribute $500 per month, earn an average 7% annual return and invest for 20 years, your final balance could be about $286,000, with roughly $130,000 contributed and the rest from growth.

Frequently asked questions

What does this investment return calculator estimate?

It estimates the future value of an investment based on your starting amount, regular monthly contributions, expected return and time horizon.

Does this calculator include investment fees or taxes?

No. It gives a simplified estimate and does not subtract fees, taxes, inflation or account charges unless you adjust your return assumption to reflect them.

Why do regular contributions make such a big difference?

Ongoing contributions increase the amount invested and give more money time to compound, which can significantly increase the final balance.

Is the annual return guaranteed?

No. The return you enter is only an assumption for estimation. Real investment performance can vary from year to year.

Can I use this calculator for retirement planning?

Yes, it can be useful for a simple retirement savings estimate, but it does not account for withdrawals, inflation, taxes or changing contribution amounts.

What is investment growth in the results?

Investment growth is the estimated profit generated by returns after subtracting the total amount you personally contributed.

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Assumptions and warnings

Assumptions

  • Results are estimates based on a constant average annual return over the full investment term.
  • Monthly contributions are assumed to be made consistently throughout the investment period.
  • This calculator does not include taxes, investment fees, account charges or inflation.
  • Returns are compounded monthly for the calculation shown.

Warnings

  • This calculator provides an estimate only and is not financial advice.
  • Investment returns are not guaranteed and actual results may be higher or lower.
  • Consider fees, taxes and risk before making investment decisions.