Calculation method
Convert a nominal monthly-compounded annual rate to an effective annual return when selected. Grow the balance annually and apply annual contributions at the selected start or end of each year.
Project retirement savings from a current balance and yearly contributions. Use the example values or enter your own numbers to explore an estimate.
Currency formatting only—not an exchange-rate conversion. No country-specific tax or government rules are applied.
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Convert a nominal monthly-compounded annual rate to an effective annual return when selected. Grow the balance annually and apply annual contributions at the selected start or end of each year.
Source/rule review year: Not applicable — general mathematical model.
A nominal annual rate is not the same as an effective annual return. With nominal rate r compounded m times per year, the equivalent effective annual rate is (1 + r / m)m − 1. For example, 6% nominal compounded monthly is about 6.17% effective for a year before fees, taxes, or inflation.
Contribution and withdrawal timing also matters: end-of-month deposits miss that month’s growth, while a beginning-of-period deposit earns for the full period. Compare tools only after matching the rate convention, compounding period, contribution timing, and fees; a displayed equivalent does not make distinct models identical.
Read the compound-interest guide