Use one common future horizon
Future value of a flow at period t is Cₜ × (1+i)^(N−t). Each payment has its own growth interval. A flow at the final horizon earns no additional growth; an earlier flow compounds for the intervening periods. The horizon must not precede the last entered cash flow.
Unequal flows need separate calculations
A $100 payment at period one and a $200 payment at period two accumulate to $310 at horizon two with a 10% periodic rate. The first grows to $110 and the second remains $200. Treating both as a $300 starting principal would give them time they were not invested.
Negative flows retain their sign
Withdrawals or other outflows can be entered as negative values and are accumulated with their signs intact. This algebraic stream valuation is not a funded account simulation: it does not stop a flow when cash is unavailable. Use the withdrawal calculator when account depletion and affordability must be enforced.
Questions about this calculation
How can I check the inputs behind the result?
Open “Show calculation & assumptions” for the formula and timing conventions, then inspect the breakdown. Export CSV to keep the last calculated inputs and numerical results together.
Does this include taxes or changing market returns?
No tax calculation or variable market-return path is included. The task-specific assumptions above describe the scope. Calculated values are conditional on the inputs, not personalized recommendations.
Learn more
Start with the step-by-step future value formula guide.
Open the formula guide →How to calculate future value · Spreadsheet calculations · All learning guides
Use these figures to explore assumptions. Actual interest, returns, fees, taxes and purchasing power can differ.