Future Value Calculator

Future value (FV) is what an amount of money invested today will grow to at a given interest rate over a set period. It reflects the time value of money — the idea that money earns a return and compounds over time. This calculator also handles regular ongoing contributions.

For a lump sum, FV = PV × (1 + r)^n. For regular deposits, add the annuity term PMT × [((1 + r)^n − 1) ÷ r], where r is the rate per period and n is the number of periods. This tool combines both so you can model a starting balance plus recurring contributions.

The more often interest compounds, the more you earn, because each new interest payment starts earning interest sooner. Monthly compounding produces a higher future value than annual compounding at the same nominal rate. The effect is larger at higher rates and over longer periods.

Contributions are the actual money you put in — your starting amount plus every deposit. Interest earned is the growth on top of that, the difference between the final future value and everything you contributed. Over long horizons, compound interest often exceeds the total contributions.

Enter your current savings as the starting amount, your regular monthly deposit as the contribution, an expected annual return, and the years until retirement. The future value shows your projected balance, letting you test how changes in contribution, rate, or time affect the outcome.