Simple Interest Calculator

Calculate simple interest, principal, time, or interest rate.

Simple interest is computed on the original principal without compounding.

$
%

Result

Balance$12,000.00

How to use this calculator

Simple interest is computed on the original principal without compounding. Enter amounts in the units shown, select the applicable options, and click Calculate. Use Reset to restore the starting values.

Calculation formula

A = P × (1 + r × t).

Assumptions and accuracy

Review timing, rates, fees and result notes when comparing scenarios. Future returns and rates are assumptions rather than guaranteed outcomes. Monetary display follows the currency’s precision; intermediate calculations retain additional digits.

Choose what to calculate

Simple interest calculator for principal rate and time

Calculate noncompounding interest, or solve for principal, rate or term. Confirm the entered time unit before comparing an annual quote.

Open this calculation

Understanding this calculation

Calculate simple interest without interest-on-interest. Match the rate's time unit with the duration before solving for balance, principal, time or rate.

Worked examples

Simple interest on 10,000 for four years

Illustrative inputs are specified in the steps below; the example link loads the complete settings. Unmentioned settings use the linked defaults.

  1. Interest = 10,000 × 5% × 4 = 2,000. Add the original 10,000 to obtain 12,000; interest itself does not earn interest.

Balance: 12,000 USD.

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Common questions

How is simple interest different from compound interest?

Simple interest is based on the original principal. Compound interest also earns on previously accumulated interest.

Can I enter a monthly rate with a term in years?

Choose the correct rate and term units so the tool can normalize them. A monthly percentage should not be entered as an annual percentage.

Scope and assumptions

This model does not describe compound-interest accounts or every loan's daily accrual convention.

Sources

Calculation methods and formulas

Balance

Simple interest is computed on the original principal without compounding.

A = P × (1 + r × t).

Principal

Simple interest is computed on the original principal without compounding.

A = P × (1 + r × t).

Term

Simple interest is computed on the original principal without compounding.

A = P × (1 + r × t).

Rate

Simple interest is computed on the original principal without compounding.

A = P × (1 + r × t).

See our calculation methodology and review status for data versions, rounding and validation limitations.