How to use this calculator
Enter your current portfolio balance, how much you plan to add each month, the annual return you expect, and your time horizon. The calculator projects your balance year by year, showing how much came from contributions versus growth.
Enable inflation adjustment to see what your future balance would be worth in today's dollars. This gives a more realistic picture of actual purchasing power.
Frequently asked questions
What is a realistic return rate?
The stock market has historically returned about 10% per year before inflation, or 7% after inflation. Use 7% for conservative long term projections.
How does compound growth work?
Your returns earn returns. Growth accelerates over time because each year's gains are added to a larger base. This is why starting early matters so much.
Should I invest lump sum or monthly?
Lump sum investing wins about two thirds of the time statistically. But monthly investing reduces risk and is more practical. Consistency matters more than timing.
How does inflation affect returns?
Inflation erodes purchasing power. A million dollars in 30 years buys much less than a million today. Toggle inflation adjustment to see the real value.