Periodic Deposit Savings Calculator
Calculate the future value of regular deposits with compound interest
A Periodic Deposit Savings Calculator helps you estimate the future value of regular contributions (weekly, monthly, yearly) to a savings or investment account, factoring in compound interest. This tool is ideal for planning long-term goals like retirement, education funds, or major purchases.
Key Inputs for the Calculator
Initial Deposit (Optional) – Starting balance (if any).
Regular Deposit Amount – How much you contribute each period (e.g., $500/month).
Deposit Frequency – Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly.
Annual Interest Rate (ROI %) – Expected return on investment (e.g., 5%, 7%, 10%).
Compounding Frequency – How often interest is calculated (monthly, quarterly, annually).
Investment Duration – Total time horizon (years).
How It Works: The Formula
The calculator uses the future value of a series of periodic deposits with compound interest:
If deposits are made at the end of each period (ordinary annuity):
If deposits are made at the beginning of each period (annuity due):
Where:
FV = Future Value
P = Periodic deposit amount
r = Interest rate per period (annual rate ÷ compounding periods per year)
n = Total number of periods (years × compounding frequency)
PV = Present Value (initial deposit, if any)
Example Calculation
Parameter | Value |
---|---|
Initial Deposit | $10,000 |
Monthly Deposit | $500 |
Annual Interest Rate | 6% |
Compounding | Monthly |
Investment Duration | 20 years |
Calculations:
Monthly interest rate (r) = 6% / 12 = 0.5% (0.005)
Total periods (n) = 20 × 12 = 240 months
Future Value (FV):
Interpretation:
$10,000 initial deposit + $500/month at 6% annual interest grows to ≈$264,120 in 20 years.
Benefits of Using This Calculator
✅ Goal Tracking – See how regular savings grow over time.
✅ Flexibility – Adjust deposit amounts, frequency, and interest rates.
✅ Motivational – Visualize the power of consistent investing.
✅ Compare Strategies – Test lump-sum vs. periodic deposits.
Who Should Use It?
Retirement Planners – Estimating 401(k) or IRA growth.
Parents Saving for College – Calculating education fund growth.
First-Time Homebuyers – Building a down payment systematically.
Side Hustlers & Freelancers – Planning irregular income investments.
How to Maximize Savings Growth
Increase Deposit Amounts – Even small boosts ($100 extra/month) add up.
Choose Higher-Yield Accounts – High-interest savings, index funds, or ETFs.
Start Early – More time = more compounding.
Automate Deposits – Ensures consistency.
Periodic Deposit vs. Lump Sum Investing
Strategy | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Periodic Deposits | Disciplined, budget-friendly, dollar-cost averaging | Slower growth initially |
Lump Sum | Faster compounding, less effort | Requires large upfront capital |
Best for most people: A combination of both (e.g., initial lump sum + monthly deposits).