What is the loan payment calculator?
In short
A fixed-rate loan payment is found with M = P × [r(1+r)^n] ÷ [(1+r)^n − 1], where P is the loan amount, r is the monthly rate, and n is the number of payments. The same formula works for personal, auto, and student loans. Shorter terms mean higher payments but less total interest.
This loan payment calculator finds the monthly payment, total cost, and amortization schedule for any fixed-rate loan — personal, auto, or student.
How to use this calculator
- 1Enter the loan amount.
- 2Set the annual interest rate.
- 3Choose the loan term.
- 4Read the monthly payment and total interest.
- 5Open the schedule to see principal vs. interest each month.
The formula
- M
- — Monthly payment
- P
- — Loan amount
- r
- — Monthly interest rate (annual ÷ 12)
- n
- — Number of payments
Worked example
The scenario
$25,000 loan at 8.5% for 60 months.
The result
The monthly payment is about $513, and you pay roughly $5,770 in total interest.
Common use cases
- Budgeting for a car or personal loan
- Comparing loan offers with different rates or terms
- Seeing the interest cost of a longer term
- Planning extra payments to save interest
Limitations & assumptions
- Assumes a fixed rate and equal monthly payments.
- Excludes origination fees and insurance add-ons.
- Does not model prepayment penalties.
Frequently asked questions
Disclaimer: KalkWise calculators are provided for general informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the figures you enter and the assumptions described above. Actual outcomes will vary. Consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.