About this payback period calculator
Estimate how long it takes an initial investment to be recovered from recurring cash flow.
How to use it
Enter the values requested by the calculator. Results update in your browser as you change the inputs. Review the assumptions shown on the calculator before using the result.
Formula
payback period = initial investment ÷ periodic cash flow
Example
This simple payback calculation does not account for discounting or changing cash flows unless the inputs themselves reflect them.
Frequently asked questions
What does the payback period calculator show?
Estimate how long it takes an initial investment to be recovered from recurring cash flow.
Are the results exact?
The result is calculated from the inputs and assumptions shown on this page. For important financial, health, tax, or legal decisions, verify the result with an appropriate professional or authoritative source.