Present Value Calculator
Calculate the present value of a future lump sum — how much you need to invest today to reach a future goal.
How to use this tool
- Enter future value target, annual return rate and years until needed in the fields above.
- Results update instantly as you type — or click Calculate.
- Read your present value needed and the full breakdown beneath it.
Present value tells you what a future sum of money is worth in today's dollars. It's the foundation of time-value-of-money calculations.
Frequently asked questions
- What is present value?
- Present value (PV) is the current worth of a future sum of money, given a specific rate of return. Because money can earn interest, $100 today is worth more than $100 in the future.
- What discount rate should I use?
- Use your expected investment return rate (e.g., 7% for a stock portfolio) or the opportunity cost of your capital. For risk-free comparisons, use the current Treasury rate.