See what consistent action can become over time.
Enter an initial amount, expected annual rate, time horizon, and optional recurring deposits or withdrawals. This calculator is educational and does not predict investment results.
Growth chart
Compare the projected balance with the net amount contributed.
Year-by-year breakdown
Values are rounded for display. Calculations retain full precision.
| Year | Starting balance | Deposits | Withdrawals | Interest | Ending balance |
|---|
What is compound interest?
Compound interest is growth earned on both the original principal and previously accumulated growth. Over longer periods, that “growth on growth” can become a meaningful part of the ending value.
Why does starting earlier matter?
An earlier start creates more compounding periods. A person contributing less for a longer time may sometimes accumulate more than someone contributing more after a long delay.
What does the rate mean?
The rate is an assumption, not a promise. Actual investment returns fluctuate, may be negative, and are affected by fees, taxes, inflation, product terms, and investor behavior.
How are deposits and withdrawals handled?
This tool applies recurring activity at the end of each interval. Deposits increase the amount available to grow. Withdrawals reduce the balance and may eventually exhaust it.