Simple Interest Calculator

Calculate your simple interest earnings

Enter your details:

Calculation Results

Summary

Principal Amount: $0.00

Annual Interest Rate: 0%

Time Period: 0 Years

Total Simple Interest: $0.00

Total Amount: $0.00

Simple Interest Calculator: Easy Loan & Investment Calculations


What Is Simple Interest?

Simple interest is a straightforward method of calculating interest on a loan or investment. Unlike compound interest, it does not accumulate on previously earned interest, making it easier to calculate.

Key Features of Simple Interest:

✔ Fixed interest based only on the principal amount
✔ Commonly used in short-term loans & personal loans
✔ Easier to calculate than compound interest


Simple Interest vs. Compound Interest

FeatureSimple InterestCompound Interest
CalculationOnly on the principalOn principal + accumulated interest
Growth SpeedLinearExponential
Common UsesShort-term loans, car loansSavings accounts, long-term investments

Which is better?

  • Simple interest is better for borrowers (lower total interest)
  • Compound interest is better for investors (faster growth)

Simple Interest Formula

The formula for simple interest is

Simple Interest  (SI) = P × R × T

Where:

  • P = Principal amount (initial sum)
  • R = Annual interest rate (in decimal)
  • T = Time in years

Example:

  • $1,000 loan at 5% for 2 years
  • SI = 1000 × 0.05 × 2 = $100

How to Use Our Simple Interest Calculator

Our free online calculator makes it easy:

  1. Enter Principal ($) – The initial amount
  2. Enter Interest Rate (%) – Annual rate
  3. Enter Time Period – Years, months, or days
  4. Click “Calculate” – Get instant results

Bonus: See total repayment (principal + interest) in seconds!


Real-World Examples

Example 1: Personal Loan

  • Principal: $5,000
  • Rate: 7% per year
  • Time: 3 years
  • Interest = 5000 × 0.07 × 3 = $1,050

Example 2: Short-Term Investment

  • Principal: $10,000
  • Rate: 4% per year
  • Time: 6 months
  • Interest = 10,000 × 0.04 × 0.5 = $200

When to Use Simple Interest?

✅ Short-term loans (e.g., personal loans, auto loans)
✅ Flat-rate investments (e.g., bonds, some savings accounts)
✅ When transparency is needed (easier to understand than compound interest)


FAQs About Simple Interest

1. Is simple interest better than compound interest?

It depends.

  • Borrowers prefer simple interest (lower costs).
  • Investors prefer compound interest (higher growth).

2. Can simple interest be used for mortgages?

Most mortgages use compound interest, but some short-term loans use simple interest.

3. How do I convert months to years for the formula?

Divide by 12 (e.g., 6 months = 0.5 years).


Final Thoughts

A simple interest calculator helps you:
✔ Estimate loan costs before borrowing
✔ Plan investments with predictable returns
✔ Avoid complex math with instant results

Try our free calculator today and make smarter financial decisions! 💰