Simple Interest Calculator — I = PRT Formula Online Guide

Simple interest calculator — illustration

Calculate simple interest with the classic I = P × R × T formula. Enter principal, annual rate, and time in years — see interest earned and total amount. Compare against compound growth with one click. The TetraKits Simple Interest Calculator runs entirely in your browser — free, private, and ready on mobile or desktop.

Overview

Personal loans, pawn shop terms, and intro finance courses use linear simple interest — not compounding. Enter principal, rate, and time to get interest owed and total repayment in one step.

How to use the simple interest calculator

  1. Enter principal — Type the initial amount borrowed or invested. Example: $5,000 loan principal.
  2. Set rate and time — Enter annual interest rate as a percent and time in years. Rate is per year; time can be fractional (0.5 = 6 months).
  3. Read interest and total — See interest (I = PRT) and total amount (P + I). For reinvested interest, use the compound interest calculator.

Common use cases

  • Enter principal: Type the initial amount borrowed or invested.
  • Set rate and time: Enter annual interest rate as a percent and time in years.
  • Read interest and total: See interest (I = PRT) and total amount (P + I).
  • Bookmark for quick access: Save the tool for repeat tasks without installing an app.

Frequently asked questions

What is the simple interest formula?

I = P × R × T — Interest = Principal × Rate (decimal) × Time in years. Total = P + I.

When is simple interest used?

Short-term loans, some bonds, and basic finance textbooks use simple interest. Most savings accounts use compound interest instead.

Can time be in months?

Enter time as a fraction of a year. 6 months = 0.5 years. 90 days ≈ 0.25 years.

How does simple differ from compound interest?

Simple interest applies only to principal each period. Compound reinvests interest — see the compound interest calculator for comparison.

Is this simple interest calculator free?

Yes. Unlimited calculations with no signup.