SIP Calculator — Mutual Fund Return Estimator

It uses the annuity-due version of the future value formula — FV = P × ((1 + i)ⁿ − 1) ÷ i × (1 + i) — which assumes each instalment is invested at the start of the month, matching how SIP auto-debits actually work. Some calculators drop the final (1 + i) factor (ordinary annuity, end-of-month investing), which produces a value about one month's growth lower. Both are legitimate; the assumptions just differ.

For long horizons, 10–12% p.a. is the range most planners use for diversified Indian equity funds, based on long-run index history — but past averages are not guarantees, and any 10-year window can land meaningfully above or below. For debt funds assume far less (roughly 6–8%). A sensible habit is to plan at a conservative number and treat anything better as buffer.

If you already have the full amount, a lumpsum mathematically wins on average because every rupee is in the market from day one. The same ₹12 lakh invested up-front at 12% for 10 years grows to about ₹37 lakh, versus roughly ₹23 lakh via ₹10,000 monthly SIPs — but the SIP investor only committed money as they earned it. SIPs exist because most people invest from salary, and rupee-cost averaging softens the risk of bad entry timing. Use the toggle to compare both with your own numbers.

No — the figure is nominal and pre-cost. Fund expense ratios are already reflected inside the return you assume (NAVs are net of expenses), but inflation and capital gains tax are not. A quick adjustment: subtract expected inflation (~5–6%) from your return assumption to see the answer in today's purchasing power.

Real returns arrive month by month and rarely match a smooth constant rate — a projection at "12%" assumes the same growth every single month. Your app also reflects actual NAV purchase dates, any skipped or extra instalments, and dividends or exit loads. Expect the calculator and reality to converge in shape, not to the rupee.

SIP Calculator — Mutual Fund Return Estimator is 100% free — no signup, no watermarks and no usage limits. It’s one of 200+ free tools we build and give away.

It uses the standard formulas and shows its working, so you can verify every number. For big decisions, treat the result as a reliable estimate.