Monthly savings needed to hit a goal.
These calculators use standard financial formulas (amortization, compound interest, marginal tax brackets) to estimate results based on the numbers you enter. They don't account for your full financial picture, and results shouldn't be treated as financial, tax, or investment advice. For decisions with real money on the line, check the numbers with a lender, accountant, or financial advisor who can see your complete situation.
Given target, current balance, expected annual return, and months available, calculates the monthly deposit needed.
Higher returns mean smaller required deposits, but higher-return accounts carry more risk. For short-term goals (<3 yrs), a high-yield savings or CD is safer than stocks.
Running this with a slightly lower return than you expect builds in a margin of safety — if the real return comes in higher, you finish early; if lower, you're not caught short.
To reach $10,000 in 36 months, starting with $1,000 at 4% return: about $232.38 per month.
Short-term: 4–5% in high-yield savings or CD (2024–26). Long-term (5+ yrs): 6–8% average in a diversified portfolio.
Yes — separate 'buckets' keep each on track. Automate transfers on payday.
Extend the timeline, lower the target, or split the difference — try a few combinations here rather than assuming the goal is out of reach.