How this calculator works
The result measures the net gain or loss relative to your initial investment. Add distributions only if they are not already included in the final value. Transaction fees reduce profit. This convention uses the initial investment, excluding fees, as its denominator.
ROI = (final value + income − initial investment − fees) / initial investment × 100P = starting amount; C = monthly contribution; G = target; r = monthly rate; n = months; y = years, where applicable.
Example you can check
Investing $1,000 and selling for $1,200 with $50 of income and $10 in fees gives a 24% net return.
Assumptions & limitations
This is a total holding-period return, not an annualized return. No timing of cash flows, tax, leverage or reinvestment is modeled. To compare investments fairly, compare the same holding period and fee convention.
Common questions
Is ROI the same as annual return?
No. A 20% return over five years is different from a 20% return over one year.
How do I avoid counting dividends twice?
If final value already includes reinvested dividends, do not also enter them as income.
Further reading: investor.gov educational guide. Our formula conventions and examples are described above.