Investment

Future Value Calculator

Project one amount today into the future at a fixed compound rate.

Inputs

Results

Enter values and press Calculate to see an explanation.

Result interpretation

Future value projects one present amount forward. Total growth and growth percentage describe this model, not a guaranteed return.

Read the learning guide

FORMULA

Formula

Future value is one amount today multiplied by its compound growth factor.

Formula variables

PV is one amount today; FV is its future value; r is nominal annual rate; m is compounding periods per year; t is years. The periodic rate is r ÷ m over m × t periods.

When to use it

Use it for one deposit or investment under a fixed rate. If you will add money each month, use a recurring-contribution tool rather than pretending every contribution was invested on day one.

WORKED EXAMPLE

Example

  1. Enter present value 100,000, a 10% annual rate, two years, and annual compounding.
  2. The compound factor is (1 + 10%)² = 1.21; multiply 100,000 by 1.21.
  3. Future value is 121,000, total growth 21,000, and cumulative growth 21%.

Frequently asked questions

How does FV differ from the compound interest calculator?

FV projects one amount invested today; the compound interest tool also models monthly additions.

What happens when compounding becomes more frequent?

At the same positive nominal annual rate, more frequent compounding generally raises future value slightly. EAR makes the rate difference comparable.

What if the present amount is zero?

Zero principal stays zero. With no principal as a denominator, the display uses 0% for this zero-amount case; it is not an investment return.

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