Model compound growth using Dave Ramsey's 12% average market return benchmark. Compare conservative and aggressive scenarios, review annual balances, and track contribution-to-growth ratios for retirement planning.
Follow the Baby Steps: invest consistently in mutual funds.
Add a starting balance such as a 401(k) rollover or current mutual fund value.
Dave Ramsey recommends investing 15% of household income for retirement.
Choose a long-term horizon (e.g., 20–35 years) to capture compound growth.
Override the 12% default. Enter a rate between 1% and 29% to model different mutual fund expectations. Select the “Custom rate” tab to use this value.
Enter your current investment balance, monthly contributions, and investing horizon. Select the 12% benchmark or adjust the growth rate to stress-test your plan. Click “Calculate growth” to view future value, total contributions, and the annual breakdown.