Compare assumptions side by side
The entered starting balance is used for each hypothetical account. Traditional and Roth scenarios receive their own annual contribution amounts and assumed nominal annual returns. Contributions are divided into equal monthly payments, arriving at the end of each month. Both use the selected compounding frequency.
Identical growth inputs produce identical balances
A label alone does not change the compounding arithmetic. If the two starting balances, contributions, rates, term and timing are identical, their before-tax projected balances match. An account comparison that changes the contribution amount or rate should disclose that difference before attributing a result to the account type.
Tax outcomes require a different calculation
This calculator excludes deductions, withdrawal taxation, eligibility and statutory contribution limits. It cannot decide which account is appropriate for a person or translate a gross balance into a spendable after-tax amount. Use its results to inspect growth assumptions, then evaluate account-specific rules separately with accurate current information.
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.