Savings calculator
Enter what you have today, what you add each month and the return you expect. The calculator shows what your savings could be worth and how much of it is growth rather than your own deposits.
- Value after 20 years
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- Your deposits
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- Growth from returns
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Value at the end of each year
- Deposits
- Growth
| Year | Deposited | Growth | Value |
|---|
Why compound interest matters
Compound interest means your returns earn returns. In the first years almost all of the value is your own deposits. Given enough time, the growth overtakes them – which is why starting early matters more than starting big.
The calculator compounds monthly and adds each deposit at the end of its period. A long-run return of 5–7% a year has historically been realistic for a broad stock index, but returns vary from year to year and are never guaranteed.
Taxes, fees and inflation are not included. Lower the expected return by a percentage point or two to see a more cautious picture.
Frequently asked questions
What return should I expect?
Savings accounts pay a few percent at most. A broad global stock index has averaged roughly 5–7% a year over long periods, with large swings along the way.
How long does it take to double my money?
Divide 72 by the yearly return. At 6% your money doubles in about 12 years, even without new deposits.
Is it better to invest a lump sum or monthly?
Money invested earlier has more time to grow, so a lump sum wins on average. Monthly deposits spread the risk and fit most budgets – the important part is to start.
Put it in a budget
Annual Budget Plan keeps every bill on a 12-month plan and works out your transfers automatically. Free.