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Investing for Kids Calculator

See how a small head start today could grow into a meaningful sum by the time your child reaches adulthood.

Your details

Contribution Frequency

Projected balance at age 18

$18,739

Initial deposit

$500

Total contributions

$9,600

Investment return

$8,639

Age 3Age 18
Initial depositContributionsInvestment return

This calculator gives an estimate only, assuming a constant annual growth rate. It does not account for taxes, fees or inflation, and is not financial advice.

How to use this calculator

  1. 1. Enter your child's current age and the age you're investing until, such as 18.
  2. 2. Enter an initial deposit and how much you plan to add regularly, plus your expected growth rate.
  3. 3. The calculator projects the balance at your chosen target age, with a year-by-year breakdown.

FAQ

Why does starting early make such a difference?

The longer money stays invested, the more time it has to compound. Starting when a child is young, even with small amounts, can lead to significantly more growth than starting a few years later.

What account should I use to invest for a child?

This calculator doesn't recommend a specific account type. Options vary by country and may include custodial brokerage accounts, education savings accounts, or investments held in a parent's name, so consider speaking with a financial adviser about what suits your situation.

Does this factor in tax on a child's investment income?

No. Tax treatment of investments held for children varies significantly depending on where you live and how the account is structured, so it isn't included in this estimate.

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Disclaimer

The results provided by this calculator are estimates only, based on the assumptions you enter, and are not a prediction or financial advice. Actual investment returns will vary. Consider speaking with a licensed financial adviser before making any financial decision.