Simple Interest Calculator

Calculate simple interest earned or owed based on principal, interest rate, and time. This free simple interest calculator also shows total balance, ending value, and average yearly interest.

Results

Simple Interest
$0
Total Amount
$0
Principal + Interest
$0
Inflation-Adjusted Total
$0
Average Annual Interest
$0
Average Monthly Interest
$0

Enter your values and click Calculate to estimate simple interest and total amount.

How this simple interest calculator works

This simple interest calculator uses the standard simple interest formula to calculate how much interest is earned or owed over a set period of time.

Unlike compound interest, simple interest is calculated only on the original principal amount. Interest does not build on previously earned interest.

What to enter

  • Your principal or starting amount
  • The annual interest rate
  • The time period in years, months, or days
  • An inflation rate for real-value comparison
  • Whether you are calculating interest earned or owed

What the results mean

  • Simple Interest: total interest over the full period
  • Total Amount: ending amount after adding interest
  • Inflation-Adjusted Total: ending value in today’s dollars
  • Average Annual Interest: average interest earned or owed per year
  • Average Monthly Interest: average interest earned or owed per month

Simple interest formula

The standard simple interest formula is:

I = P × R × T

Where:

The total amount is then:

A = P + I

Tips for using a simple interest calculator

Use the correct time unit

If your loan or deposit is shorter than a year, using months or days can give a more accurate estimate.

Know when simple interest applies

Some personal loans, short-term notes, and basic interest arrangements use simple interest instead of compound interest.

Do not confuse it with compound interest

Simple interest only uses the original principal. Compound interest grows faster because it includes interest on prior interest.

Check real purchasing power

Inflation can reduce the value of your ending amount over time, especially on longer periods with lower rates.

Frequently asked questions

What is simple interest?

Simple interest is interest calculated only on the original principal amount, not on accumulated interest.

What is the difference between simple and compound interest?

Simple interest stays based on the starting principal, while compound interest adds interest to the balance and then earns interest on top of that.

Can I use months or days in this calculator?

Yes. This calculator converts months and days into years so the simple interest formula can be applied correctly.

Does this calculator include fees or taxes?

No. This calculator provides a basic estimate only. Fees, taxes, and penalties are not included.

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