Future Value Calculator

Estimate how much an amount grows over time with compound interest and optional contributions.

How to Use

  1. Enter your starting amount (Present Value).
  2. Set interest rate, time, and compounding frequency.
  3. Optional: add a periodic contribution and choose deposit timing (end/beginning).
  4. Open “Show Work” for formulas and step-by-step math.
Results Snapshot
Live updates while you type. Share link is manual.
FV
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Interest
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Contrib
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Total In
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Model: —
Tip: For “no contributions,” leave Contribution at 0.
Inputs & Settings
All calculations are performed in the browser.
Starting balance today.
APR is nominal. If APY is selected, the calculator converts to an equivalent periodic rate.
Total duration for growth.
How often interest is applied.
If contribution frequency differs from compounding, the calculator uses an equivalent-period approach (shown in Show Work).
Beginning-of-period deposits earn one extra period of growth.
Show Work (step-by-step)
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Work is shown using the exact periods used in the calculation (and any conversions).

Future Value Formulas

This calculator uses standard time-value-of-money formulas.

  • Lump sum (no contributions): FV = PV × (1 + r)^n
  • With contributions (ordinary annuity): FV = PV × (1 + r)^n + PMT × (( (1 + r)^n − 1 ) / r)
  • Annuity due (beginning): multiply the PMT portion by (1 + r)
  • Zero-rate edge case: FV = PV + PMT × n
Where PV = present value, FV = future value, PMT = contribution per period, r = rate per period, n = number of periods.

FAQ

What’s the difference between APR and APY?

APR is a nominal annual rate. APY reflects compounding. If you choose APY, the calculator converts it into an equivalent periodic rate for the selected compounding.

Should I use beginning or end of period?

If you contribute at the end of each period (typical paycheck-to-savings after the period), choose End. If you contribute at the beginning, choose Beginning.

Why is this different from my bank’s projection?

Banks may use different compounding rules, contribution timing assumptions, fees, taxes, or variable rates. This tool is a clean deterministic model.

Tool Info

Last updated:

Updates may include additional frequency handling, formatting, and edge-case validation.