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Frequently Asked Questions
How is interest on a loan calculated?
Most personal loans and car loans in Australia use simple interest calculated on the remaining principal balance each period. Each repayment covers the interest accrued that period plus a portion of the principal. Early in the loan, more of each repayment goes to interest; later, more goes to principal. This process is called amortisation, and it means your interest charges decrease over time as the principal reduces.
What is the difference between fixed and variable rate loans?
A fixed rate locks in your interest rate for a set period (typically 1-5 years), giving you certainty about repayments regardless of market changes. A variable rate can move up or down with market conditions, affecting your repayments. Fixed rates are typically 0.3-0.5% higher than variable rates initially. Variable loans offer more flexibility with extra repayments and offset accounts, while fixed loans protect you when rates rise but may incur break costs if you exit early.
Should I pay fortnightly or monthly on my loan?
Fortnightly payments can save you significant interest over the life of your loan because there are 26 fortnights in a year compared to 12 months. This means you make the equivalent of 13 monthly payments per year, all of which go directly to reducing your principal. On a $400,000 mortgage at 6% over 30 years, switching to fortnightly payments can save approximately $50,000 in interest and shave years off your loan term.
What is an comparison rate?
A comparison rate includes both the interest rate AND most fees and charges associated with a loan, expressed as a single percentage figure. This allows you to compare the true cost of different loan offers on an apples-to-apples basis. In Australia, lenders are required to display the comparison rate alongside all loan advertisements. For example, a loan advertised at 5.9% with $395 annual fee might have a true comparison rate of 6.2%, revealing it's more expensive than it initially appears.
Can I negotiate a better loan rate?
Yes, most lenders have some flexibility, particularly for existing customers or when you have a good credit history. A single phone call quoting a competitor's lower rate can sometimes save you 0.5-1% annually. Before negotiating, research current market rates, know your credit score, and have a specific target rate in mind. Many lenders have retention teams empowered to offer better rates to keep your business. Even a 0.5% reduction on a $400,000 mortgage saves approximately $100,000 over 30 years.
What happens if I miss a loan repayment?
Missing a loan repayment incurs late fees (typically $15-30 per missed payment) and can negatively affect your credit score. Multiple missed payments can lead to a default on your loan, which stays on your credit file for up to 7 years. For secured loans like mortgages, the lender may eventually take legal action to recover the property. If you're struggling with repayments, contact your lender immediately as they often have hardship arrangements that can help you get back on track without damaging your credit rating.