How to use this investment return calculator
Enter the values requested above and select Calculate. Change any input to compare another scenario. The calculation runs locally in your browser and does not require an account.
Formula and method
Example
An investment rising from $10,000 to $13,000 while paying $500 over three years has a 35% total return before annualizing.
Tips for a useful result
The annualized result assumes the final value and distributions can be represented as one compounded return.
What this calculator is useful for
Calculate investment gain, total return and annualized return from a beginning value, ending value and holding period. The result is intended for quick estimates, checking arithmetic and comparing scenarios. When a result affects a contract, tax filing, medical decision, building-code requirement or other high-stakes situation, verify the result with the appropriate professional or authoritative source.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Investment Return Calculator calculate?
Calculate investment gain, total return and annualized return from a beginning value, ending value and holding period.
How does the Investment Return Calculator work?
Total return = (ending value − beginning value + cash distributions) ÷ beginning value. Annualized return compounds that result across the holding period.
Is the Investment Return Calculator free to use?
Yes. ERICH Calculators is free to use and does not require an account.