Annuity Calculator Online
An annuity is a financial product that pays out a fixed stream of payments to an individual, typically used as an income stream for retirees. Annuities are primarily used to provide a steady cash flow during retirement and can be purchased with either a lump sum or through a series of payments over time.
This online annuity calculator helps you estimate the future value of your regular contributions to an annuity. By inputting your regular contribution amount, the expected annual interest rate, and the number of years you plan to contribute, you can see how your investment might grow over time. It also shows you the total amount you've contributed and the total interest earned.
How Annuities Work
At its core, an annuity involves a contract between you and an insurance company. You make payments (either a single lump sum or a series of payments) to the insurer, and in return, the insurer promises to pay you regular disbursements, either immediately or at some point in the future. The growth of your annuity is often tax-deferred, meaning you don't pay taxes on the earnings until you start receiving payments.
Using the Annuity Calculator
To use this calculator, simply enter the following details:
- Regular Contribution Amount: The amount you plan to contribute to your annuity in each payment period (e.g., monthly, quarterly, annually).
- Annual Interest Rate (%): The expected annual rate of return your annuity will earn.
- Number of Years: The total duration over which you will make contributions.
- Contribution Frequency: How often you will make your regular contributions (e.g., Monthly, Quarterly, Annually).
The calculator will then provide you with an estimated future value of your annuity, the total amount you've contributed, and the total interest earned over the specified period.
Example Scenario
Let's say you decide to contribute $200 per month to an annuity. You expect an annual interest rate of 6%, and you plan to contribute for 20 years. Using the calculator:
- Regular Contribution Amount: 200
- Annual Interest Rate (%): 6
- Number of Years: 20
- Contribution Frequency: Monthly
The calculator would show you an estimated future value of approximately $92,400, with total contributions of $48,000 and total interest earned of about $44,400. This demonstrates the power of compounding over time.
Important Considerations
- Inflation: The purchasing power of your future annuity payments can be eroded by inflation.
- Taxes: While growth is often tax-deferred, withdrawals from annuities are typically taxed as ordinary income.
- Fees and Charges: Annuities can come with various fees, such as mortality and expense charges, administrative fees, and rider fees, which can impact your net returns.
- Withdrawal Penalties: Early withdrawals from annuities may incur surrender charges from the insurance company and potential tax penalties if you are under 59½.
- Interest Rate Fluctuations: The actual interest rate earned may vary from your estimate, especially with variable annuities.
This calculator provides an estimate based on the inputs provided and does not account for taxes, fees, or inflation. It's a useful tool for planning, but always consult with a financial advisor for personalized advice.
Annuity Future Value Calculator
Calculation Results:
Estimated Future Value:
Total Contributions:
Total Interest Earned: