Frequently Asked Questions
Accurate results in under 60 seconds — formula shown, sources cited, zero data collected.
Accuracy & Formulas
- Are the results accurate?
- Every formula on FiscalCalc is sourced directly from the IRS, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and Investopedia — the same primary sources lenders and financial institutions reference. The formula used to produce your result is displayed below every calculator, with the source cited, so you can verify the math yourself against the same authorities we use.
- What formulas do you use?
- Each calculator uses industry-standard methodology. Mortgage calculations use the standard amortization formula (as defined by the CFPB). Tax calculations apply the IRS marginal rate schedule for the current year. Retirement projections use compound interest with annual contribution growth. Every calculator page documents the exact formula and variables used — nothing is a black box.
- How often are the formulas updated?
- Every January. We review all 20 calculators at the start of each year and update tax brackets, contribution limits, and federal rate assumptions to reflect current IRS and CFPB guidelines. The update date is noted in each calculator's source citation so you always know how current the formula is. We do not wait for mid-year changes to trigger an update — our annual review is scheduled regardless.
Privacy & Data
- Is my data stored or shared?
- No. FiscalCalc collects nothing from your calculator inputs. All calculations run entirely in your browser using JavaScript. The numbers you enter are never transmitted to a server, stored in a database, or shared with any third party — including advertisers. When you close the tab, the data is gone.
- Do I need an account to use FiscalCalc?
- No. Every calculator on FiscalCalc is accessible without registration. No account, no email address, no paywall. You come with a question, you leave with an answer — nothing submitted, nothing stored, nothing sent.
- Do you collect my inputs for advertising purposes?
- No. Calculator inputs are processed locally in your browser and are never transmitted anywhere. We display ads via Google AdSense, but those ads are served based on page context — not on the numbers you enter into any calculator. The only data we collect is standard anonymized site analytics (pages visited, session duration) via Google Analytics. See our Privacy Policy for the complete breakdown.
About the Calculators
- Why does FiscalCalc show the formula behind every result?
- Most calculator sites give you a number and nothing else. FiscalCalc shows the formula because understanding what drives your result — the interest rate vs. the loan term, the marginal tax rate, the contribution timing — is what lets you make a better decision.
A result without the formula is a number you have to trust blindly. You can't push back on a lender's quote if you can't verify the math. You can't spot the variable that changes everything if it's hidden. - Can I use these results to make financial decisions?
- FiscalCalc's calculators are educational tools designed to help you understand how financial formulas work and explore different scenarios. Results are estimates based on your inputs and standardized formulas — they are not personalized financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial professional before making major financial decisions.
- What calculators are available?
- FiscalCalc covers 20 financial topics across five categories: Loans (mortgage, auto loan, loan payment, amortization, refinance break-even), Savings (compound interest, investment return, inflation), Retirement (retirement savings, 401k, net worth), Budgeting (budget, emergency fund, debt-to-income, credit card payoff, break-even), and Other (life insurance, home affordability, salary and paycheck, tax bracket). See all 20 calculators →
- Can I use FiscalCalc on mobile?
- Yes. Every calculator is fully responsive and tested on mobile. The layout adjusts to single-column on small screens, and all inputs are touch-friendly.
About FiscalCalc
- How is FiscalCalc different from other calculator sites?
- Most free calculator sites share the same business model: the calculator is the hook, and your financial situation is what gets monetized. You type in your income, your loan amount, your debt balance — and that data is worth money to lenders. The result comes wrapped in recommendations, a “connect with an advisor” button, and a prompt for your email. The formula is hidden, because if you understood the math, you wouldn't need to click anything.
FiscalCalc is built differently. Three specific differences:
The formula is shown. Every result comes with the formula that produced it and the primary source it's built on — IRS, CFPB, or HMDA. You're not asked to trust a number. You can verify it against the same authorities lenders use.
Nothing is collected or transmitted. All calculations run in your browser. The numbers you enter never reach a server, aren't shared with advertisers, and aren't used to profile you for financial products. No email required to use any calculator — ever.
The calculator is the product. There is no lead-generation mechanism tied to your inputs. No one making money from your financial situation. You came for a number. That's what you get. - Why is FiscalCalc free?
- FiscalCalc is supported by advertising (Google AdSense) and an optional newsletter. The calculators have always been free and will remain free — no paywall, no premium tier.
- How do I report an error in a formula?
- Email hello@fiscalcalcs.com with the calculator name and the specific result you believe is incorrect. We verify every report against the primary source and publish a correction if confirmed, typically within 48 hours.
Results are for educational and informational purposes only. FiscalCalc is not a licensed financial advisor, mortgage broker, or tax professional. Consult a qualified professional before making major financial decisions. Formula accuracy is maintained annually but may not reflect mid-year regulatory changes.