Estimate how a starting cash balance may change over the next few months using a simple recurring inflow and expense pattern. This calculator is useful for quick planning when you want a straightforward estimate rather than a full financial model.
What This Calculator Estimates
This calculator estimates the cash position at the end of a selected projection period using a starting balance and repeating monthly inflows and expenses. It is useful for a simple cash runway check or quick business planning estimate.
Formula / Method Used
Ending balance = starting balance + ((inflow - fixed expenses - variable expenses) x months)
- Total inflow = monthly inflow x projection months
- Total expenses = (fixed expenses + variable expenses) x projection months
- Net monthly cash flow = inflow - fixed expenses - variable expenses
Worked Example
If you start with $15,000, bring in $9,000 per month, spend $4,200 on fixed expenses, $1,800 on variable expenses, and project 6 months, the calculator estimates a monthly net cash flow of $3,000 and adds that monthly surplus to the starting balance over 6 months.
What the Result Means
Ending cash balance shows the projected cash level at the end of the period. A positive net monthly cash flow suggests the balance is growing, while a negative figure suggests the balance is being consumed. The note below the result gives a quick runway interpretation.
Common Mistakes
- Leaving out seasonal or irregular expenses.
- Using gross sales as if they were actual cash inflow.
- Assuming inflow and expenses will stay unchanged every month.
- Ignoring tax payments, debt service, or one-time capital spending.
Limitations / Disclaimer
This calculator provides planning estimates only and is not accounting, tax, or financial advice. It uses a simple recurring-month assumption and does not model timing differences, taxes, financing, or unexpected cash events. Results are estimates only.
Last updated: May 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this cash flow projection calculator estimate?
It estimates ending cash balance, total inflow, total expenses, and net monthly cash flow over the projection period you enter.
What is net monthly cash flow?
Net monthly cash flow is monthly inflow minus monthly fixed expenses and monthly variable expenses.
What does the cash runway note mean?
It gives a simple interpretation of whether the projected cash balance appears to grow, stay flat, or shrink over the months entered.
Are these results exact forecasts?
No. These are estimates only and do not capture seasonality, taxes, timing shifts, or unexpected cash movements.