Simple Return vs Goal Planner
Use Simple Return when you already know the monthly SIP and want the future value. Use Goal Planner when the decision starts from a target such as child education, marriage, a house down payment, or retirement. The goal mode inflates the target first, then applies the monthly PMT formula to find the SIP needed.
Formula
PMT = (FV x r) / ((1 + r)^n - 1)
FV = target amount adjusted for inflation
r = monthly expected return, n = number of monthsTypical Goal Costs in 2026 India
| Child education | ₹15 lakh to ₹75 lakh | Course, city, and overseas plans change this sharply. |
| Marriage | ₹10 lakh to ₹40 lakh | Guest count and venue dominate the budget. |
| House down payment | ₹10 lakh to ₹60 lakh | Usually 15-25% of property value plus registration costs. |
| Retirement corpus | ₹1 crore+ | Depends on lifestyle, health cover, and inflation. |
Return Expectations
For long-term equity mutual fund planning, 12% is a common assumption in India, but it is not guaranteed. For debt funds, RDs, short-term goals, or safer buckets, 6-7% is more realistic. If a goal cannot tolerate market volatility, use a lower expected return and increase the monthly SIP instead of relying on an aggressive number.
Common questions
How does inflation affect goal planning?
Inflation increases the future cost of the same goal. A ₹25 lakh education goal today can need much more after 10 years, so the Goal Planner first inflates the target and then calculates the SIP required.
What return should I assume for equity SIPs?
Many Indian planning examples use around 12% for long-term equity mutual funds, but this is not guaranteed. Use 10-12% for balanced planning and lower numbers for conservative goals.
What return should I assume for debt goals?
For short or medium-term debt-oriented goals, 6-7% is a more conservative planning range than equity assumptions.
Can the required SIP be zero?
Yes. If your starting amount can grow to the inflation-adjusted target by the deadline, the calculator shows zero required monthly SIP.
Are SIP returns guaranteed?
No. SIP returns vary with markets, fund choice, expenses, and timing. Use the result as a planning estimate, not a promise.
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Request a calculator →Disclaimer: SIP and goal-planning results are estimates. Mutual fund returns are market-linked and not guaranteed. Verify important financial decisions with a qualified adviser.
Last updated: May 2026