SIP Sep 27, 2025

How to Calculate SIP Returns in 3 Effective Ways

Confused about how to calculate SIP returns? Fret not. We cover 3 effective ways, tips and tricks and more to help you on this journey seamlessly.

Today, many individuals are investing in mutual funds to create wealth over time through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). But the real question arises: what is the return that one can get on such investments? It is essential to have a clear idea about that before making wise financial decisions. Let us see these steps in an easy-to-understand way.

What is an SIP?

SIP stands for Systematic Investment Plan, an investment mode in which an individual invests a fixed amount at regular intervals in any mutual fund scheme. You can buy the mutual fund units on the same date every month. SIPs are very useful in smoothing out the buying cost because of a consistent approach towards investing and taking the benefit of compounding.

Why Calculate SIP Returns?

Knowing how to calculate SIP returns is essential to understanding how your investments perform. It helps determine whether the investment strategy is working perfectly or needs some changes. Proper return computation also allows for a good comparison between different mutual fund schemes.

Key Concepts to Grasp

Before we discuss how to calculate SIP returns, there is a need to learn about a few concepts, which include:

  • NAV (Net Asset Value): It is the price per unit of a mutual fund, which changes according to the market value of its assets.
  • Units Purchased: It is the number of units purchased through each instalment of SIP.
  • Investment Tenure: This is the period for which you continue investing through SIP.
  • Total Investment: The total value of investments made in this tenure.
  • Current Value: The market value of the investment on the maturity date.

Different Methods for Calculating SIP Returns

Still wondering how to calculate SIP returns? There are several ways to calculate SIP returns. We’ll cover three common methods:

1. Absolute Returns

Absolute returns tell you the absolute increase or decrease in your investment amount in a simple percentage. They’re the most basic method, but they don’t adjust for the time value of money.

Formula: Absolute Return (%) = (Selling price – Purchase price) / Purchase price) x 100

Let’s consider an example. Suppose an investor invests ₹1000 every month for 12 months, for a total of ₹12,000. The current value of the investment is ₹13,500.

Absolute return formula: (₹13,500 - ₹12,000) / ₹12,000 x 100 = 12.5%

2. Annualised Returns (CAGR)

Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) gives a much better perspective on returns as it factors in the period. It tells you the mean annual growth rate of your investments over a specified period.

Formula: (1 + Return) ^ (1 / N) - 1 = Annualized Return

Here, N is the time measured.

Let’s use the same example with a five-year investment period.

Scenario:

An investor decides to invest in a monthly SIP for 5 years. They invest a fixed amount of ₹5,000 every month. After 5 years, the total value of their investment becomes ₹3,25,000.

Calculating CAGR:

  • Number of investment periods (N): In this case, N = 5 years * 12 months/year = 60 months (total number of monthly investments).
  • Total Investment: Total investment = ₹5,000/month * 60 months = ₹3,00,000
  • Total Return: Total return = Total value - Total investment = ₹3,25,000 - ₹3,00,000 = ₹25,000

XIRR (Extended Internal Rate of Return)

The best and most exact method for calculating your returns on an SIP is this one. This method takes irregular cash flows and your investments on exact dates into account, so it is best for SIP calculations.

You can easily do the XIRR calculation with the help of any spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.

Steps:

  • List all your SIP investments with dates.
  • Mention the current value of your investment with the respective date.
  • And you will get the return using the XIRR function.

Here’s an example:

Date Amount
01-Jan-2023 -1000
01-Jan-2023 -1000
01-Mar-2023 -1000
01-Oct-2023 -1000
01-Dec-2023 13500

Use the formula =XIRR(values, dates) in Excel or Google Sheets:

XIRR = XIRR({−1000,−1000,...,13500},{01−Jan−2023,01−Feb−2023,...,31−Dec−2023})

Interpreting the XIRR Result:

  • This decimal value represents the internal rate of return (IRR) of your SIP investment.
  • Multiply the XIRR result by 100 to get your SIP return as a percentage (CAGR).

Using Online SIP Calculators

The above process is usually cumbersome for most people, so nowadays, many SIP calculators are available online, where all one needs to do is enter the relevant details.

These calculators require you to input your monthly invested amount, the amount of time, and the rate of returns likely to prevail. It will calculate the return for you.

Tips to Get the Best SIP Returns

Here are some tips that can help you make the most of your SIP Investments:

  • Regular Monitoring: Check on your investments at regular intervals to ensure you are on the right track.
  • Reinvestment: Every inflow that you receive in terms of dividends should be reinvested to maximise your returns.
  • Consider Inflation: Do not forget to consider the effect of inflation on your returns.
  • Diversify: Don’t pool all your money into one fund. If you diversify, it lets you manage risk better.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s go through some common mistakes you should avoid when calculating SIP returns:

  • Ignoring Fees: Remember to account for the fund’s expense ratio and other fees that it may charge because they reduce returns.
  • Overestimating Returns: Try to be as realistic as possible with your rate of return to avoid disappointment.
  • Neglecting the Time Factor: Different methods account for the time factor differently. Choose the correct method based on your needs.

Conclusion

We hope you finally have the answer on how to calculate SIP returns. Whether you use the absolute returns method for a quick calculation, CAGR for annualised returns or XIRR for the most accurate calculation, understanding these methods will help you make better investment decisions. Remember, investing is a long journey. Regularly monitoring and adjusting your strategy will ensure you reach your financial goals.

Ready to simplify SIP return calculations and make informed investment decisions? Use our free SIP calculator!

Frequently Asked Questions

The formula for calculating SIP returns is Amount invested × ({[1 + Periodic rate of interest] Total number payments – 1} / Periodic rate of interest) × (1 + Periodic rate of interest).

If you invest 3000 a month in an SIP for 5 years, your total investment would be: 3000 x 60 = 180,000. Returns will depend on the rate of return of your chosen SIP.

No, SIPs are not risk-free. They are subject to market risks as they invest in mutual funds, which can fluctuate based on market conditions.

Yes, you can withdraw your SIP anytime. However, depending on your holding period, there may be exit loads or taxes.