How to use the projection
Compare several return assumptions instead of relying on one number. A higher annual return can make the final value look much larger, but real portfolios do not grow at a steady rate every month.
Example
A $10,000 starting balance with $250 added monthly for 20 years at 6% annual return grows to roughly $162,000 with monthly compounding. About $70,000 of that is contributions.
Common mistakes
Do not compare nominal future dollars with today's purchasing power without considering inflation. Fees and taxes can also reduce the ending balance.
What the estimate leaves out
The result does not include taxes, fund fees, inflation, withdrawals or market volatility. For planning, compare the nominal result with an inflation-adjusted scenario in the compound interest calculator.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17