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Dollar-Cost Averaging vs. Lump Sum Calculator

Compare investing a windfall all at once against spreading it over months at an assumed rate of return.

This is an estimate based on the numbers you have entered, not financial advice. NetWorthy never recommends a specific security and never moves money on your behalf.

$89,392.48

Invest it all now

$86,206.79

Spread it out

Investing it all now

Ends ahead

-$3,185.69

Difference

At a positive assumed return, investing everything up front always wins — every dollar held back is a dollar not compounding. Enter a negative return to see it flip. The real case for spreading purchases is avoiding regret, which no calculator can price.