text:  That means that right out of the gate, they would earn $16,000. Well, $16,000 on your money in a year is a very good rate of return. Wouldn't you agree? Well, this is being dropped in your lap on day one. Now, once the money is deposited, the account is in place, you can start earning interest. And the interest you earn is based on the performance of the S&P 500.