Guide

How interest is calculated on a business loan

Interest is simpler than it looks once you know the method. It comes down to the rate, the balance it is charged on, and the time. The single biggest variable is whether it is charged on the original amount or the reducing balance — a difference that can nearly double the cost.

2 min read

Rate× balance × time
MethodFlat or reducing
BalanceThe key difference

Illustrative only. Assumes a fixed rate and equal monthly repayments (annuity). Your actual offer depends on Credicorp’s assessment of your company.

The basic mechanics

Interest is the rate applied to a balance over a period of time. On most business loans it is charged monthly on the amount outstanding, so the total depends on how much you owe, for how long, at what rate. Change any one and the cost changes.

Reducing-balance interest

On a reducing-balance loan, interest is charged only on what you still owe, which falls with each repayment. Early payments are interest-heavy, later ones clear principal. This is standard amortisation and the fairer method. See the guide.

Flat-rate interest

A flat rate charges on the original amount for the whole term, even as you repay. It looks cheaper but costs far more — its APR is often nearly double the headline. Always convert before comparing. See flat rate vs APR.

How term and rate combine

A higher rate raises each month's interest; a longer term adds more months of it. Together they set the total cost. Understanding the interaction lets you pull the levers to cut cost — see reducing loan cost.

See the interest in your loan

Use the calculator to see exactly how much of your repayments is interest.

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally, and takes no personal guarantee. See indicative terms on business loans, or apply online in minutes.

Frequently asked questions

How is interest calculated on a business loan?

As the rate applied to a balance over time. On most loans it is charged monthly on the amount still outstanding, so the total depends on how much you owe, for how long, and at what rate.

What is the difference between flat and reducing-balance interest?

Reducing-balance charges only on what you still owe, so the cost falls as you repay. Flat-rate charges on the original amount throughout, which understates the cost — its APR is often nearly double.

How does the loan term affect interest?

A longer term adds more months of interest, raising the total even at the same rate. A shorter term costs less overall but means higher monthly payments — a trade-off to balance against affordability.

Funding for UK limited companies

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally — short-term working capital with no personal guarantee. See what your business could access.