Loan Amortization Formula:
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Loan amortization is the process of paying off a debt over time through regular payments. Each payment covers both interest and principal, with the interest portion decreasing and principal portion increasing over the loan term.
The calculator uses the standard loan amortization formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the fixed monthly payment required to fully repay a loan over its term, accounting for compound interest.
Details: Understanding your loan payments helps with budgeting, comparing loan options, and making informed financial decisions. It shows the true cost of borrowing.
Tips: Enter the principal amount in AUD, annual interest rate as a percentage (e.g., 5.25 for 5.25%), and loan term in years. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What's the difference between interest rate and APR?
A: The interest rate is the cost of borrowing, while APR includes additional fees and charges, giving a more complete picture of loan costs.
Q2: How can I reduce my total interest paid?
A: You can reduce total interest by choosing a shorter loan term, making extra payments, or securing a lower interest rate.
Q3: Are Australian loan calculations different from other countries?
A: The basic formula is universal, but Australia typically uses monthly compounding for standard home loans, similar to many other countries.
Q4: Does this calculator account for variable rates?
A: No, this calculator assumes a fixed interest rate for the entire loan term. Variable rate loans would require different calculations.
Q5: What other costs should I consider when taking a loan?
A: Consider establishment fees, ongoing fees, early repayment penalties, and any insurance requirements in addition to the interest rate.