APR Calculation Formula:
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APR (Annual Percentage Rate) represents the yearly cost of borrowing money, including interest and fees. For credit cards, it's calculated from the daily periodic rate.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts the daily interest rate to an annualized percentage rate.
Details: Understanding APR helps consumers compare credit card offers and understand the true cost of carrying a balance.
Tips: Enter the daily rate in decimal form (e.g., 0.0005 for 0.05%). The daily rate is typically found in your credit card agreement.
Q1: What's the difference between APR and interest rate?
A: APR includes both the interest rate and any additional fees, providing a more complete picture of borrowing costs.
Q2: What is a good APR for a credit card?
A: As of 2023, average APRs range from 15% to 25%. Rates below 15% are considered good, while rates above 25% are high.
Q3: How do I find my daily rate?
A: Check your credit card agreement or divide your APR by 365 (then divide by 100 to convert to decimal).
Q4: Does APR affect minimum payments?
A: Yes, higher APRs result in higher interest charges, which are included in your minimum payment calculation.
Q5: Can APR change after opening an account?
A: Yes, most credit cards have variable APRs that can change with the prime rate or due to changes in your creditworthiness.