Compound Interest Formula:
From: | To: |
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 a faster rate compared to simple interest, where interest is calculated only on the principal amount.
The calculator uses the compound interest formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how much your savings will grow over time with compound interest, taking into account how frequently the interest is added to your account.
Details: Understanding compound interest is crucial for financial planning, retirement savings, and making informed decisions about investments. It demonstrates how small, regular contributions can grow significantly over time.
Tips: Enter the principal amount in pounds, 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 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: Yes, the calculation works for any currency, though the results are displayed in pounds for UK context.
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.