Investment Calculator
Project the future value of investments with inflation-adjusted returns.
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Formula
Where PV = initial investment, r = monthly rate, n = total months, PMT = monthly contribution. Inflation adjustment divides the nominal future value by (1 + inflation)^years.
Worked Example
When to Use This Calculator
Use this calculator to project long-term investment growth. It is well suited for retirement planning, college savings, or any scenario where you want to understand the real (inflation-adjusted) value of future wealth.
Important Assumptions
- Returns are constant and compounded monthly.
- Contributions are made at the same time each month.
- Inflation rate is constant over the entire period.
- No taxes, fees, or withdrawals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using nominal returns without considering inflation can overstate purchasing power.
- Past returns do not guarantee future performance.
- Ignoring investment fees, which can significantly reduce long-term returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is inflation-adjusted value?
Inflation-adjusted value shows what your future money would be worth in today's purchasing power. $100,000 in 20 years will buy less than $100,000 today.
What annual return should I use?
Historical stock market returns have averaged roughly 7-10% nominally. Use conservative estimates for planning. The calculator does not endorse any specific expected return.
Does this account for taxes?
No. Returns shown are pre-tax. Actual returns depend on your account type and tax situation.
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