Compound Interest Formula:
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The compound interest formula calculates the future value of savings by accounting for interest earned on both the initial principal and the accumulated interest from previous periods. It's essential for understanding how savings grow over time in UK savings accounts.
The calculator uses the compound interest formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows how your savings grow exponentially over time as interest is earned on both your initial deposit and the accumulated interest.
Details: Understanding compound interest is crucial for financial planning, retirement savings, and making informed decisions about savings accounts and investments in the UK market.
Tips: Enter principal amount in GBP, annual interest rate as a decimal (e.g., 0.05 for 5%), compounding frequency (e.g., 12 for monthly), and time in years. All values must be positive numbers.
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 often do UK savings accounts typically compound interest?
A: Most UK savings accounts compound interest annually, but some may compound monthly, quarterly, or daily.
Q3: Are there tax implications for interest earned?
A: In the UK, you may need to pay tax on savings interest above your Personal Savings Allowance, depending on your income tax band.
Q4: Can I use this calculator for other currencies?
A: While the formula works for any currency, this calculator is specifically designed for GBP as it's tailored for UK savings accounts.
Q5: How accurate is this calculator for real savings accounts?
A: This provides a theoretical calculation. Actual returns may vary based on specific account terms, fees, and changing interest rates.