Covered Call Return Calculator

This calculator shows what a covered call earns if the stock stays flat (static return) and if it's called away (if-called return), plus annualised figures.

Static return
2.0% · $100
If-called return
6.0% · $300
Annualised static
24.3%
Annualised if-called
73.0%
Downside protection
2.0%
Breakeven
$49

Static return is 2.0% (24.3% annualised); if called away it's 6.0%. Breakeven is $49.

Educational estimate, not advice.

How it works

Returns are measured against the stock price and annualised by days to expiration.

  • Static return = P ÷ S
  • If-called return = (P + max(K − S, 0)) ÷ S
  • Annualised = return × 365 ÷ D
  • Downside protection = P ÷ S
  • Breakeven = S − P

Worked example

Stock $50, $52 call, $1 premium, 30 days: static 2.0%, if-called 6.0%, annualised static ≈ 24.3%, breakeven $49.

Limitations

Annualised figures assume you could repeat the trade at the same terms, which isn't guaranteed. Ignores dividends and fees.

Questions

What is a good covered call return?

It depends on the stock's volatility; higher returns come with higher risk of the stock falling.

What does if-called mean?

The return if shares are assigned at the strike at expiration.

Does it include dividends?

No — add them separately if you expect one.

Related

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