Calculated from the sample figures using the displayed formula.
What is the annuity formula?
FV = Payment × [((1 + r)ⁿ − 1) ÷ r]The ordinary-annuity formula finds the future value of equal payments made at the end of equal periods.
What do the inputs mean?
- Payment each period
- The value entered for payment each period. Keep its period and units consistent with the other inputs.
- Rate per period (%)
- The value entered for rate per period (%). Keep its period and units consistent with the other inputs.
- Number of payments
- The value entered for number of payments. Keep its period and units consistent with the other inputs.
How to calculate it step by step
- Define the decision.
Write down what the result will help you compare or decide. - Collect matching inputs.
Use figures from the same period and apply the definitions shown on this page. - Apply the formula.
FV = Payment × [((1 + r)ⁿ − 1) ÷ r]. - Check the units.
Confirm whether the result is a currency amount, percentage, number of periods or ratio. - Test a second case.
Change one assumption at a time to see what drives the result.
Worked example
Using the sample figures in the calculator, the result is $62,889.46. Change one figure at a time and recalculate to see which assumption has the greatest effect. A spreadsheet should return the same result when it uses the same formula, units and timing.
When should you use annuity formula?
Use it when payment amount, timing and periodic rate are constant.
Limitations and common mistakes
An annuity due places payments at the beginning and requires one additional growth factor.
Do not mix annual figures with monthly figures, ending balances with averages, or percentages with whole numbers. Record the definition used so another person can reproduce the result.
Frequently asked questions
What is annuity formula?
The ordinary-annuity formula finds the future value of equal payments made at the end of equal periods.
How should I use annuity formula?
Use the formula only after matching every input to the same period, unit and definition. Then compare the result with a worked example and the decision you are trying to make.
What is the most common mistake with annuity formula?
An annuity due places payments at the beginning and requires one additional growth factor.
Can I calculate annuity formula in a spreadsheet?
Yes. Reproduce the displayed equation with separate cells for each input, keep percentages as decimals, and test the spreadsheet against the worked example before replacing the sample figures.
Sources and methodology
This page uses the Financial definitions for the underlying financial or reporting context. Spreadsheet-related behavior is checked against Microsoft’s financial-function documentation. Examples are illustrative and use the formula displayed on the page.