1. What is the Loan Payment Formula?

The loan payment formula calculates the fixed monthly payment required to pay off a loan over a specified term. It accounts for the principal amount, interest rate, and loan duration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard loan payment formula:

Where:

• \( PMT \) — Monthly payment amount
• \( PV \) — Principal loan amount
• \( r \) — Monthly interest rate (annual rate ÷ 12)
• \( n \) — Total number of payments (loan term in years × 12)

Explanation: The formula calculates the fixed payment needed to fully amortize the loan over its term, accounting for both principal and interest.

3. Importance of Loan Payment Calculation

Details: Understanding your monthly payment helps with budgeting and financial planning. It allows you to compare different loan options and terms.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the principal amount in USD, annual interest rate as a percentage, and loan term in years. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this include taxes and insurance?
A: No, this calculates only principal and interest. Actual mortgage payments may include additional amounts for taxes and insurance.

Q2: How does loan term affect payments?
A: Longer terms reduce monthly payments but increase total interest paid. Shorter terms have higher payments but lower total interest.

Q3: What's the difference between APR and interest rate?
A: The interest rate is the cost of borrowing, while APR includes fees and other loan costs to show the true annual cost.

Q4: Can I use this for car loans or other financing?
A: Yes, this formula works for any fixed-rate installment loan including mortgages, auto loans, and personal loans.

Q5: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides precise calculations for fixed-rate loans. Variable-rate loans or loans with balloon payments require different calculations.