Calculate Savings Interest Rate

Compound Interest Formula:

\[ A = P \times (1 + \frac{R}{n})^{(n \times T)} \]

Principal (P):

Annual Interest Rate (R):

decimal

Compounding Frequency (n):

times/year

Time (T):

years

Maturity Amount (A):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Compound Interest Formula?

The compound interest formula calculates the future value of an investment or loan where interest is added to the principal, so that interest also earns interest from then on. This compounding effect can significantly increase returns over time.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the compound interest formula:

\[ A = P \times (1 + \frac{R}{n})^{(n \times T)} \]

Where:

\( P \) — Principal amount (initial investment)
\( R \) — Annual interest rate (in decimal form)
\( n \) — Number of times interest is compounded per year
\( T \) — Time the money is invested for (in years)
\( A \) — Future value of the investment/loan

Explanation: The formula accounts for the compounding effect where interest is earned on both the initial principal and the accumulated interest from previous periods.

3. Importance of Compound Interest Calculation

Details: Understanding compound interest is crucial for financial planning, investment decisions, and retirement savings. It demonstrates how money can grow over time and helps compare different investment options.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the principal amount in dollars, annual interest rate as a decimal (e.g., 0.05 for 5%), compounding frequency (how many times per year interest is added), and time in years. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between simple and compound interest?
A: Simple interest is calculated only on the principal amount, while compound interest is calculated on both the principal and accumulated interest.

Q2: How does compounding frequency affect returns?
A: More frequent compounding (daily vs. annually) results in higher returns due to interest being calculated and added more often.

Q3: What is the rule of 72?
A: The rule of 72 estimates how long it takes for an investment to double: 72 divided by the annual interest rate gives the approximate number of years.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for loans?
A: Yes, the same formula applies to loans where interest compounds, though loan calculations often have additional factors like payments.

Q5: What's the best compounding frequency?
A: Generally, more frequent compounding is better for savings, but the actual difference depends on the interest rate and time period.