Savings goal calculator
Find regular contributions needed to meet a target.
Your inputs
Your results
Ready when you areYour results will appear here.
Compare two scenarios.
Run the tool, then save A or B to compare headline results and entered values. Keep currencies, periods and assumptions consistent.
Saved scenarios stay in this browser until you clear them. Reset clears the working result; it keeps saved scenarios. Use Clear saved scenarios on a shared device.
Run the tool to save your first scenario.
How it works
Solve an end-of-month annuity for the regular contribution needed to reach a target under an assumed effective annual return and chosen whole-month term.
Read the source reference ↗A few things to know
No guarantee of returns or reaching the goal. Excludes tax and fees. Zero required contribution means the current balance would meet the target under the entered assumptions, not necessarily today.
Results use your inputs. Keep all money amounts in the same currency.
When to use this tool
Work backward from a target to a monthly saving amount. The assumed growth on your current balance is calculated separately.
- Set a saving contribution.
- Compare target dates.
- Inspect a zero-return plan.
How to use savings goal calculator
Prepare the inputs
Use balances and rates from current statements, in one currency.
Choose the settings
Enter the scenario assumptions; this tool does not fetch market rates.
Review and export
Compare the report with the actual account terms before acting.
Try the supplied example
Inputs
target: 20000; initial: 5000; return: 3; months: 36
Result
The example solves a monthly contribution to grow 5,000 toward 20,000 over 36 months at an assumed 3%.
What it means
Choose conservative assumptions and compare several scenarios.
Common mistakes to avoid
A modeled return is not guaranteed
A modeled return is not guaranteed.
Use the same currency for target and initial balance
Use the same currency for target and initial balance.
Frequently asked questions
Definitions, edge cases, and practical next steps for this tool. Search all tool FAQs ↗
When are deposits made?
At each modeled month end.
How is zero return handled?
The shortfall is divided by the number of months.
Can the answer be zero?
Yes, if the modeled growth of your existing balance already reaches the target.
Are fees included?
No. Account for them in the return assumption if appropriate.
Can I enter a negative return?
Yes, down to -50% effective annually.
Why round up the displayed contribution?
Rounding down could leave a small shortfall in a constant-return scenario.
Are my inputs uploaded or stored?
Processing happens locally in your browser. This tool does not upload inputs. Downloads stay on your device; sharing or opening them in another service is your choice.
What should I check before using the output?
No guarantee of returns or reaching the goal. Excludes tax and fees. Zero required contribution means the current balance would meet the target under the entered assumptions, not necessarily today.
Explore the topic in the blog
Sources and method
Use the references below to check definitions and platform guidance. The model’s scope and limits are explained above. Read our editorial standards.