Start small growth calculator
You don't need a lot of money to start investing. Thanks to Compound interestInterest that gets added to your balance, so next time you earn (or owe) interest on the interest too.More in the glossary, small amounts can grow a lot over many years.
Enter how much you could invest each month and for how long. The growth rate is an example, not a promise. Investments go up and down.
Your results
- After 30 years
- $24,363
- What you put in
- $9,000
- Growth
- $15,363
After 30 years, you'd have about $24,363: $9,000 you put in and $15,363 of growth.
How it grows
| After | You put in | Balance |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | $300 | $308 |
| 5 years | $1,500 | $1,737 |
| 10 years | $3,000 | $4,062 |
| 15 years | $4,500 | $7,173 |
| 20 years | $6,000 | $11,336 |
| 25 years | $7,500 | $16,907 |
| 30 years | $9,000 | $24,363 |
What this means
- If you invest $25 a month for 30 years, and it grows 6% a year on average, you'd have about $24,363. You put in $9,000. The other $15,363 is growth.
- If you waited 10 years to start, you'd have about $11,336 instead. Starting early gives your money more time to grow.
Returns are not guaranteed. Investments can lose money, especially over short periods. Only invest money you won't need for several years, and build an emergency fund first.
Where to get free help
- Investor.gov (SEC)
Check whether an investment professional is registered, and learn how to spot investment scams.
- Report a scam to the FTC
Tell the Federal Trade Commission about a scam, even if you didn't lose money. You'll get advice on what to do next.