Savings Goal Calculator
Find the monthly amount you need to save to hit your target on time.
Estimates for educational purposes only — not financial, tax, or investment advice.
Working backward from your goal
Most savings advice tells you to 'save more.' This tool flips it: you name the target and the deadline, and it tells you the exact monthly amount to get there. It accounts for the interest your existing savings and new contributions will earn along the way, so the required monthly amount is usually lower than the goal divided by the number of months.
If the monthly number feels too high
You have three levers: extend the deadline, raise the assumed return (within reason), or lower the target. Nudge the inputs above to find a plan that actually fits your budget — a realistic plan you keep beats an ambitious one you abandon.
Frequently asked questions
What return rate should I assume for a goal?
For short-term goals (1-3 years) use a conservative rate like a high-yield savings or CD rate. For longer horizons you might assume more, but never count on returns that aren't guaranteed.
What if I already have nothing saved?
Set current savings to 0. The calculator will show the full monthly amount needed to reach your goal from scratch.