HELP Debt Repay vs Invest Calculator
Compare paying HELP early with investing the same cash, using an assumed annual indexation rate and an after-tax investment return.
Use 2025-26 for the return being lodged now, or 2026-27 for the current income year.
The actual 1 June rate is the lower of CPI or WPI; 2026 was 2.8%.
Expected annual return if you invested instead.
Investing is better by $51,362. Your investment returns would outpace the indexation you save.
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Invest Instead
HELP does not charge market interest, but eligible accumulated debt is indexed on 1 June using the lower of CPI or WPI. Paying before that date can avoid indexation on the amount credited in time. The calculator therefore asks for an assumed future indexation rate rather than treating CPI as a fixed forecast.
Investing can produce a higher expected return, but it introduces market risk, fees and possible tax. Paying HELP is a certain nominal saving at the applicable indexation rate, while keeping cash may preserve an emergency buffer or home deposit. Compare the result with those practical trade-offs.
For related tools, see the HELP debt payoff timeline calculator to model your full payoff timeline, and the income threshold calculator to find your compulsory repayment rate.
Should I pay off my HELP debt or invest the money instead?
What investment return would I need to beat HELP indexation?
Is the 5% upfront repayment bonus still available?
Tax Accuracy & Sources
This calculator is an estimate tool and may not cover all personal circumstances. For state-based taxes, confirm details with your state or territory revenue office.