Compound Interest Formula:
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Compound interest is the interest calculated on the initial principal and also on the accumulated interest of previous periods. It allows savings to grow at an accelerating rate over time, making it a powerful tool for wealth accumulation.
The calculator uses the compound interest formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how much your initial investment will grow based on the interest rate and compounding frequency over a specified time period.
Details: Compound interest is fundamental to long-term savings growth. The more frequently interest compounds, the faster your money grows. This calculator helps visualize the power of compounding for high-interest savings accounts.
Tips: Enter the principal amount in dollars, annual interest rate as a percentage, select compounding frequency, 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 does compounding frequency affect growth?
A: More frequent compounding (daily vs annually) results in higher returns because interest is calculated and added to the principal more often.
Q3: What is a typical interest rate for high-yield savings?
A: Rates vary but typically range from 3-5% APY for high-interest savings accounts, though this fluctuates with market conditions.
Q4: Are there any limitations to this calculation?
A: This assumes a fixed interest rate and doesn't account for additional deposits, withdrawals, or changes in interest rates over time.
Q5: Is compound interest taxable?
A: Yes, interest earned is generally considered taxable income in the year it's credited to your account.