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Annuity Calculator

Estimate the present value and future value of a stream of equal recurring payments using your interest rate, time horizon, and payment frequency.

Future value

$231,020.45

Present value

$69,790.39

Total contributions

$120,000

How to Use

  1. Enter the recurring payment amount for each deposit or withdrawal. Use the same amount you expect to contribute each month, quarter, or year.
  2. Add the annual return or discount rate you want to test. A higher rate increases future value but also lowers present value because future cash flows are discounted more heavily.
  3. Set the total time horizon and choose the payment frequency that matches the schedule in real life. Monthly versus annual payments can materially change the result.
  4. Compare the future value with the total amount contributed to see how much growth is coming from interest rather than deposits alone.
  5. Use the present value output when you want to translate a stream of future payments into a lump-sum value today, such as for pension income or payout comparisons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an annuity in this calculator?

Here an annuity means a series of equal payments made at regular intervals, such as monthly retirement contributions, insurance payouts, or annual withdrawals. The tool is most useful when the cash flow amount and timing stay consistent across the full term.

When should I look at future value versus present value?

Use future value when you want to know what regular contributions may grow into by the end of the schedule. Use present value when you want to know what a planned stream of future payments is worth right now at a given discount rate.

Why does payment frequency change the answer?

Frequency matters because it changes how often money is contributed and how often the balance has time to earn. Monthly payments usually build a different ending value than yearly payments even when the annual total contributed is the same.

Does this calculator assume an ordinary annuity or annuity due?

This version uses the standard ordinary annuity assumption, meaning each payment happens at the end of the period. If your deposits happen at the beginning of each period, the actual future value would be somewhat higher.

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