Future Value Formula:
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The Future Value Calculator estimates how much your savings or investments will grow over time, taking into account compound interest and regular contributions. It helps you plan for financial goals and understand the power of compounding.
The calculator uses the future value formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how money grows through compound interest, accounting for both the initial investment and regular contributions.
Details: Understanding future value is essential for retirement planning, saving for major purchases, investment decisions, and achieving long-term financial security.
Tips: Enter all values in the specified units. Ensure the interest rate is in decimal form (e.g., 5% = 0.05). All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What's the difference between simple and compound interest?
A: Simple interest is calculated only on the principal amount, while compound interest is calculated on both the principal and accumulated interest.
Q2: How often should I compound interest?
A: More frequent compounding (daily > monthly > quarterly > annually) results in higher returns due to the compounding effect.
Q3: What if the interest rate is zero?
A: The calculator handles zero interest rates by using a simplified calculation that only sums the principal and total contributions.
Q4: Can I use this for retirement planning?
A: Yes, this calculator is excellent for estimating retirement savings growth, especially when making regular contributions.
Q5: How accurate are these calculations?
A: The calculations are mathematically precise for the given inputs, but actual returns may vary due to changing interest rates and market conditions.