Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about using WhatIfMoney

How accurate is the historical data?

We source our data from reliable financial data providers and strive for accuracy. However, historical stock prices can vary slightly between sources due to adjustments for splits, dividends, and other corporate actions. Always verify critical information independently.

Does the calculator include dividends?

Currently, our calculator shows price appreciation only and does not include dividend reinvestment. This means actual total returns for dividend-paying stocks would be higher than shown. We're working on adding dividend reinvestment in a future update.

Are taxes and fees included in the calculations?

No. The calculations show gross returns before taxes, trading fees, and other costs. Your actual returns would be lower after accounting for these expenses. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.

Can I use this for investment decisions?

WhatIfMoney is an educational tool, not financial advice. While historical data can provide context, past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Always do thorough research and consult a qualified financial advisor before investing.

How often is the data updated?

Stock price data is updated regularly to reflect the most recent market close. Historical data is static and doesn't change unless there are corporate actions (splits, etc.) that require retroactive adjustments.

Why do some stocks show different returns than other calculators?

Differences can occur due to: (1) whether dividends are included, (2) how stock splits are handled, (3) the exact time of day prices are recorded, and (4) data source variations. Small differences are normal.

Can I calculate returns for any date range?

You can calculate returns for any date range where we have historical data available. For most stocks, this goes back several years or decades. The exact range depends on when the stock began trading publicly.

What does 'adjusted for inflation' mean?

When you see inflation-adjusted returns, we're showing the 'real' purchasing power of your investment. For example, if you made 100% returns but inflation was 20%, your real purchasing power only increased by about 67%.

How do I compare two stocks?

Currently, you can open multiple browser tabs to compare stocks side-by-side. We're working on a dedicated comparison tool that will make this easier. Stay tuned!

Is my search history saved?

We may use cookies to improve your experience, but we don't store your personal investment calculations on our servers. See our Privacy Policy for details on data collection.

Can I download or export my calculations?

Currently, you can take screenshots of your results. We're considering adding export functionality in the future. Let us know if this would be useful!

What if I find an error in the data?

Please contact us immediately through our Contact page with details about the ticker, date range, and the issue you found. We take data accuracy seriously and will investigate promptly.

Still have questions?

We're here to help! Reach out to us and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.