Loan Calculator

Use the Loan Calculator when you want to see how the figures change under a particular set of assumptions. Enter the values you know, review the result and compare a second scenario if you are weighing an option.

$
%
Monthly payment
$400.76
Total interest$4,045.36
Total cost$24,045.36
✉ Email me this result
</> Embed this calculator

Paste this into any website or blog post. It is free — the small "powered by" link must stay visible.

Sources & methodology

Last reviewed January 15, 2026 — see our editorial & accuracy policy.

Method: Fixed-rate payments use the standard amortization formula; total interest = (payment × number of payments) − principal.

How it works

Loans use the same amortization formula as a mortgage:

Payment = P × [ r(1 + r)n ] ÷ [ (1 + r)n − 1 ]

Here P is the loan amount, r is the monthly rate (annual rate ÷ 12) and n is the total number of monthly payments. Total interest is simply the total of all payments minus the amount borrowed.

How to use the Loan Calculator

Enter the values requested by the tool and start with one realistic example. Read the result together with its unit or label, then change one input at a time if you want to compare options. Keeping a note of the original figures makes the calculation easier to check later.

Use the result as a planning estimate rather than a quote or guarantee. Rates, fees, tax rules and personal circumstances can change the final figure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this for a car loan?
Yes. Enter the financed amount, the annual interest rate and the term in months or years to see the monthly auto loan payment.
What is total interest?
It is the extra you pay on top of the amount borrowed. It equals the sum of every monthly payment minus the original loan amount.
Does a longer term lower my payment?
A longer term lowers the monthly payment but increases the total interest because you are paying interest for more months.