Published Nov 11, 2025 4 Min Read

Understanding financial concepts like annuity and perpetuity is essential for making informed investment decisions. These terms, often used in the context of retirement planning, asset allocation, and income generation, can significantly impact your financial goals. In this article, we will explore the differences between annuity and perpetuity, their formulas, examples, and practical applications. Additionally, we will highlight how Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits can help you achieve predictable returns with flexible tenure options.

What is an annuity?

An annuity is a financial product that provides regular payments over a specified period or the lifetime of the annuitant. These payments can be made monthly, quarterly, or annually, making annuities a reliable source of income, especially for retirees.


For example, consider a retiree investing in a fixed annuity. They receive a guaranteed income stream for a set number of years, ensuring financial stability during retirement. Annuities are popular among Indian investors for retirement planning, budgeting, and securing predictable returns.


What is a perpetuity?

Perpetuity refers to a financial arrangement that provides equal payments indefinitely, with no end date. Unlike annuities, perpetuities do not have a fixed term, making them a theoretical concept in many cases. Common examples include perpetual bonds like British Consols or university endowments that generate income forever.

For instance, a trust fund set up to provide scholarships every year without depleting the principal amount is an example of perpetuity. While perpetuities are rare in personal finance, they are significant in financial modeling and legacy planning.


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Key differences between annuity and perpetuity

Annuities and perpetuities may seem similar, but they differ significantly in purpose, duration, and payment structure. Here is a detailed comparison:

BasisAnnuityPerpetuity
DurationFixed duration (e.g., 10 or 20 years, or lifetime).Infinite duration, payments continue indefinitely.
Payment StructurePayments can be fixed, variable, or inflation-adjusted.Payments are fixed or grow at a constant rate.
End DatePayments cease after the specified term or upon the annuitant’s death.No end date; payments continue forever.
Present Value FormulaPV = C × [(1 - (1 + r)^-n) / r]PV = C / r (for constant perpetuity) or PV = C / (r - g) (for growing perpetuity).
PurposeCommonly used for retirement income or financial planning.Used for legacy planning, scholarships, or theoretical financial modeling.

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With Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits, you can choose tenures that align with your financial goals while earning assured returns of up to 7.30% p.a. Open FD

Annuity and perpetuity formulas explained

To calculate the present value (PV) of annuities and perpetuities, these formulas are commonly used:

 

Annuity Formulas

  • Present Value (PV):
    PV = C × [(1 - (1 + r)^-n) / r]
    Where:
    • C = Payment amount
    • r = Discount rate
    • n = Number of periods
  • Future Value (FV):
    FV = C × [((1 + r)^n - 1) / r]

Example: If you invest Rs. 10,000 annually at a 5% interest rate for 10 years, you can calculate the future value of your annuity using the formula.

 

Perpetuity Formulas

  • Constant Perpetuity (PV):
    PV = C / r
    Where:
    • C = Payment amount
    • r = Discount rate
  • Growing Perpetuity (PV):
    PV = C / (r - g)
    Where:
    • C = Payment amount
    • r = Discount rate
    • g = Growth rate

Want to simplify your FD investments?
Use the Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit Calculator to estimate your maturity value in minutes and plan your financial goals effectively. Once you are clear about the amount, tenure and expected returns, check FD rates and start investing. 

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between annuity and perpetuity is crucial for making smarter financial decisions. While annuities provide income for a fixed duration, perpetuities offer indefinite payments, making them suitable for different financial scenarios. For Indian investors, annuities are practical for retirement planning, whereas perpetuities are better suited for legacy or institutional purposes.


If you are looking for a reliable and secure investment option, Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits offer assured returns, flexible tenures, and a simple booking process. Start your fixed deposit journey with Bajaj Finance today and grow your savings confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between an annuity and a perpetuity?

A perpetuity is a financial arrangement offering infinite cash flows, while an annuity provides limited-period cash flows over a defined term.

Can an annuity become a perpetuity?

No, an annuity cannot become a perpetuity as its payments are limited to a fixed duration, unlike a perpetuity offering indefinite payments.

What are the common formulas to calculate the value of annuities and perpetuities?
  • For annuity: PV = C × [(1 - (1 + r)^-n) / r].
  • For perpetuity: PV = C / r, where C represents periodic payments, r is the interest rate (per period), and n is the number of periods.
How can I achieve predictable returns without complex calculations?

If you want a simple and secure way to grow your savings, consider investing in Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits. With flexible tenures, attractive interest rates, and a hassle-free investment process, you can achieve your financial goals without relying on intricate formulas. Book FD

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Disclaimer

As regards deposit taking activity of Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL), the viewers may refer to the advertisement in the Indian Express (Mumbai Edition) and Loksatta (Pune Edition) furnished in the application form for soliciting public deposits or refer https://www.bajajfinserv.in/fixed-deposit-archives
The company is having a valid Certificate of Registration dated March 5, 1998 issued by the Reserve Bank of India under section 45 IA of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. However, the RBI does not accept any responsibility or guarantee about the present position as to the financial soundness of the company or for the correctness of any of the statements or representations made or opinions expressed by the company and for repayment of deposits/discharge of the liabilities by the company.

For the FD calculator the actual returns may vary slightly if the Fixed Deposit tenure includes a leap year.