How to use it
Enter what you have now, how much you add each month, the average return you expect and how many years you will invest. The calculator shows the balance at the end, how much of it is your own money and how much is growth.
Choosing a return rate
No one knows future returns. Long-run U.S. stock market averages are often quoted around 7% a year after inflation or 10% before, but individual years vary widely. Savings accounts and bonds pay less. Try several rates (for example 4%, 6% and 8%) to see a range instead of one number.
What this does not include
- Fees and fund expenses, which reduce your return.
- Taxes on gains and dividends.
- Inflation: prices rise, so a future dollar buys less.
This is a projection for education, not investment advice.