APR Formula:
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APR (Annual Percentage Rate) represents the true cost of borrowing, including both interest and fees, expressed as an annualized percentage. It allows consumers to compare different credit products on a like-for-like basis.
The calculator uses the standard UK APR formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the annualized cost of borrowing as a percentage of the principal amount.
Details: APR is a legal requirement for UK lenders to display, providing borrowers with a standardized way to compare credit products. It helps consumers understand the true cost of borrowing and make informed financial decisions.
Tips: Enter all amounts in GBP. Ensure the loan term is entered in days. All values must be positive numbers with principal greater than zero and term at least 1 day.
Q1: What's the difference between APR and interest rate?
A: Interest rate only shows the cost of borrowing the principal, while APR includes both interest and any additional fees, giving a more complete picture of the total cost.
Q2: Is APR the same for all types of credit?
A: While the calculation method is standardized, different credit products (credit cards, personal loans, mortgages) may have different fee structures that affect the APR.
Q3: Why is 365 used in the formula?
A: 365 represents the number of days in a year, converting the daily rate to an annual percentage rate.
Q4: What is a good APR rate?
A: Lower APR is generally better. Rates vary by credit product and borrower creditworthiness. Typically, rates below 10% are considered good for personal loans.
Q5: Are there any limitations to this calculation?
A: This provides a simplified calculation. Actual APR calculations by lenders may be more complex and consider compound interest and specific fee structures.