Finance · Investments & Markets

Payback Period Calculator

Estimate when undiscounted periodic cash flows recover an initial outflow.

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Quick guide

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter the cash flows, values, rates, timing, or portfolio assumptions named in the fields.
  2. Use one consistent period and currency convention throughout the scenario.
  3. Read the calculator-specific model limits before interpreting the result.

Calculation method

Calculation method

Accumulate flows from time zero; interpolate within the first positive recovery period.

Model, simulation, root, square-root, and compounding outputs are estimates and are visibly marked approximate.

Worked example

Worked example

An initial −1,000 followed by 400 each period pays back after 2.5 periods.

Accumulate flows from time zero; interpolate within the first positive recovery period.

Supported inputs

Precision and limits

Visible input limits

Inputs support up to 12 decimal places and lists support at most 1,200 rows. Iteration and simulation bounds are displayed in their fields.

International scope

No exchange, tax system, reporting standard, currency, fund rule, trading calendar, or market convention is selected automatically.

Decision boundary

Outputs are entered scenarios, not valuations, forecasts, risk limits, executable trades, suitability decisions, or recommendations.

Calculator-specific assumptions

The first flow must be negative. Interpolation assumes the recovery-period cash flow accrues evenly.