Savings & investing · Foundation calculator 2
How could your savings grow over time?
Project an initial amount and regular contributions with compound growth. Compare the result with a slightly higher contribution—without implying a guaranteed return.
✓ 2026 rules · Last verified August 2026 · Based on official Canadian sourcesProjected future value
Planning estimate — not financial advice.
How the balance builds
How the balance builds
Contributions and estimated growth at five-year intervals.
| Year | Contributed | Balance |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $10,000 | $10,000 |
| 5 | $28,000 | $33,235 |
| 10 | $46,000 | $63,055 |
| 15 | $64,000 | $101,324 |
| 20 | $82,000 | $150,437 |
Understand the result
What this estimate means
Growth can earn additional growth over time, but an assumed return is not guaranteed and actual markets fluctuate.
Before deciding: Account tax rules, fees, inflation and contribution timing can materially change the real outcome.
Helpful answers
Frequently Asked Questions
How does compound interest work?
Compound interest means returns are earned not only on the original principal but also on previously accumulated interest or investment growth. Over long periods, this compounding can make time and contribution consistency especially important.
How much will my investment grow with compound interest?
The future value depends on your starting amount, regular contributions, assumed return, compounding frequency and time horizon. A calculator lets you test different assumptions rather than relying on a single growth estimate.
What is the difference between simple interest and compound interest?
Simple interest is calculated only on the original principal. Compound interest also earns returns on prior accumulated interest, so the gap between the two typically grows over time.
How often should interest be compounded?
More frequent compounding can modestly increase the effective return when the stated rate is otherwise identical. For investments, however, the assumed rate of return and time invested usually matter much more than small differences in compounding frequency.
How long does it take money to double with compound interest?
The time depends on the rate of return. The Rule of 72 gives a rough estimate by dividing 72 by the annual percentage return, while a compound-interest calculator provides a more precise result.
Official sources and rule record+
Reference and methodology
How this projection works
At each selected period, the current balance earns the periodic rate and then the contribution is added. The estimate assumes a constant nominal return, no fees, no taxes and contributions made at the end of each period.
Investment returns are uncertain. This is a planning illustration, not a forecast or recommendation.
ca.savings.compound.v1 · 2026 rules · Last verified August 2026 · Based on official Canadian sources
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