Personal Loan Calculator
Estimate your monthly payments and total interest costs
Estimated Monthly Payment
$311.06
Total Principal:
$10,000.00
Total Interest:
$1,198.23
Total Cost of Loan:
$11,198.23
Understanding Your Personal Loan Calculation
A personal loan can be a powerful financial tool for debt consolidation, home improvements, or unexpected expenses. Using this personal loan calculator helps you visualize the long-term cost of borrowing before you sign a contract.
Key Factors in Personal Loan Costs
- Loan Amount: This is the principal—the actual amount of money you receive in your bank account.
- Interest Rate (APR): The Annual Percentage Rate includes the interest rate plus any fees (like origination fees). A higher credit score typically earns you a lower APR.
- Loan Term: This is how long you have to pay the loan back. Common terms range from 24 to 84 months. Short terms mean higher monthly payments but lower total interest.
Example: The Impact of Interest Rates
Imagine you need a $15,000 personal loan to renovate your kitchen with a 5-year (60 month) term:
| Interest Rate | Monthly Payment | Total Interest Paid |
|---|---|---|
| 6% (Excellent Credit) | $289.99 | $2,399.52 |
| 12% (Good Credit) | $333.67 | $5,020.00 |
| 18% (Fair Credit) | $380.93 | $7,855.80 |
How to Secure a Lower Rate
To reduce your monthly payments and total interest, consider improving your credit score by paying down existing credit card balances. Additionally, many lenders offer a 0.25% discount if you set up automatic payments (autopay) from your checking account.