What is the compound interest calculator?
In short
Compound interest is interest earned on both your original money and the interest it has already earned. To calculate it, multiply your starting balance by (1 + r/n) raised to the power of n×t, where r is the annual rate, n is how often it compounds per year, and t is the number of years. Adding regular contributions accelerates growth significantly.
This compound interest calculator shows how a starting amount grows when interest is repeatedly added back to the balance. You can include regular contributions, choose any compounding frequency, set the time in years and months, and switch on goal mode to find out when you'll hit a target.
How to use this calculator
- 1Enter your starting amount (principal).
- 2Add a contribution and choose how often you'll add it.
- 3Set the annual interest rate and how often interest compounds.
- 4Choose the time period in years and months.
- 5Optionally turn on "Set a goal" to see when you'll reach a target.
The formula
- FV
- — Future value (final balance)
- P
- — Starting principal
- PMT
- — Periodic contribution
- r
- — Annual interest rate (decimal)
- n
- — Compounding periods per year
- t
- — Number of years
KalkWise simulates each month individually so that contributions, compounding frequency, and partial years are all handled precisely.
Worked example
The scenario
Start with $10,000, add $200 every month, earn 7% compounded monthly, for 20 years.
The result
Your balance grows to about $204,000 — roughly $58,000 in contributions plus $10,000 principal, with the remaining ~$136,000 coming from compound interest.
Common use cases
- Planning long-term savings or an investment account
- Comparing the effect of different interest rates
- Seeing how monthly contributions accelerate growth
- Understanding the long-term cost of compounding on debt
Limitations & assumptions
- Assumes a constant interest rate for the whole period — real returns vary year to year.
- Does not account for taxes on interest or capital gains.
- Ignores inflation; use the Inflation Calculator to see real purchasing power.
Frequently asked questions
Disclaimer: KalkWise calculators are provided for general informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the figures you enter and the assumptions described above. Actual outcomes will vary. Consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.