Frequently asked questions
Future Value Calculator FAQ
Short answers to common questions about the calculator inputs, result interpretation, sources, and privacy boundaries.
Updated 2026-09-14
Calculator questions
These answers summarize behavior implemented in this site. The formula and Excel pages provide the longer mathematical derivations.
Questions and answers
What is future value?
Future value is the projected value of a starting balance plus scheduled deposits or withdrawals after compound growth over a selected period. It is a mathematical projection, not a prediction of what an account will actually earn.
What is the difference between nominal and real future value?
Nominal future value is expressed in future dollars. Real future value divides that amount by the inflation factor for the same horizon, expressing the result in current purchasing power.
Are the default rates live market quotes?
No. Defaults are dated benchmark snapshots from documented sources. Treasury and CPI values come from FRED; long-term stock-market estimates come from Damodaran historical data. Every rate remains editable.
Does the calculator store my amounts or contributions?
No account is created, and calculator inputs are not sent to site storage. Calculations run in the browser. The app itself stores only your selected theme in browser-local storage; Google Analytics may also set its own analytics cookies.
How do I model withdrawals?
Enter the recurring withdrawal as a negative contribution. If withdrawals exhaust the account, the projection stops at $0 instead of compounding a negative balance.
Can I verify a result in Excel?
Yes. Use the Excel FV reference for the required rate, number of periods, payment signs, and type argument. The site documents how to match monthly compounding and payment timing.
Is this financial advice?
No. The site is an educational calculator. It does not recommend investments, predict returns, estimate safe withdrawal rates, or provide tax, legal, or personalized financial advice.