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How to calculate future value in Excel and Google Sheets
Topic:Finance basicsExcel & Google Sheets
=FV(B2/12,C2,-D2,-A2)✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Initial | Annual Rate | Months | Monthly Contrib | Future Value |
| 5000 | 0.06 | 60 | 200 | |
| 1000 | 0.05 | 36 | 100 | |
| 10000 | 0.08 | 120 | 500 | |
| 0 | 0.07 | 24 | 300 |
=FV(B2/12,C2,-D2,-A2)→20698.2568647188
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Step by step
- 1Set up columns: Present Value / Initial Investment (A), Annual Rate (B, as decimal), Number of Months (C), and Monthly Contribution (D).
- 2Enter =FV(B2/12,C2,-D2,-A2) in the Future Value column. The rate is divided by 12 for monthly compounding. Negate PV and PMT so the result is a positive future value.
- 3Format the result as Currency. This shows the total value of your investment at the end of the term.
Tips
- If there are no regular contributions, omit the PMT argument or set D2 to 0: =FV(B2/12,C2,0,-A2).
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Frequently asked
What does a negative FV result mean?
It means cash is flowing out. Negate your PV and PMT inputs (use -A2 and -D2) to ensure a positive result representing money received.
Can I calculate future value with annual compounding?
Yes. Use =FV(B2,C2,0,-A2) where B2 is the annual rate and C2 is the number of years, and omit the /12 conversion.
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