A loan calculator is a tool that helps you estimate your monthly payments, total interest, and other loan details. It typically allows you to enter information about the loan, such as:
- Loan
- Interest rate loan calculator
- Loan term (number of years or months)
- Type of loan (e.g. mortgage, car loan, personal loan)
Based on this information, the loan calculator will calculate and display:
- Monthly payment amount
- Total interest payable during the loan period
- Total amount paid (principal + interest)
- The amortization schedule shows the loan balance decreasing over time
Loan calculators are useful when you're considering taking out a loan because they can help you understand the financial implications and compare different loan options. They allow you to test different scenarios, such as increasing your down payment or adjusting your loan term, to see how it affects your monthly payment and overall cost. This can help you make an informed decision about the loan that best suits your financial situation and goals.
Many banks, lenders and financial websites offer free online loan calculators that you can use to get a detailed estimate of your potential loan amount. Using a loan calculator can be an important first step in the loan process.
