ETF Calculator
Project a hypothetical ETF balance from an initial investment, monthly contributions, assumed annual return, time, and annual expense ratio. See contributions, growth, and estimated fee drag separately.
Written and checked by TheToolNet Editorial Team · Last reviewed: September 27, 2026 · Editorial method
Project ETF growth and fees
How this ETF projection works
The calculator converts the assumed annual return minus the annual expense ratio to a monthly rate, compounds the balance once per month, and adds each contribution at month end. It also runs the same schedule without the fee to estimate fee drag.
Fee drag compounds too
A small expense percentage reduces the balance directly and also removes growth that the deducted amount could have earned. Investor.gov explains this compounding effect in its fees and expenses bulletin.
This is not a forecast
Real ETF returns vary from month to month and can be negative. The model excludes trading commissions, bid-ask spreads, tracking difference, tax, dividend treatment, inflation, currency movements, and contribution timing inside a month. Read the fund prospectus and fee table.
Use multiple scenarios
Compare lower and higher returns, different contribution levels, and the actual expense ratios of funds you are researching. Do not select an ETF because one smooth-growth projection looks attractive. Use the total return calculator for a completed holding period.
Frequently asked questions
Does the assumed return include dividends?
Treat it as a total-return assumption only if you intend dividends to be reinvested. Do not add dividends twice.
Why subtract the expense ratio from return?
It is a simplified estimate. Actual fund expenses accrue within the fund and tracking can differ from the stated ratio.