← Back to Tutorials
finance

How to Use the EMI Calculator

Open Tool & Start Using

Understanding EMI Calculations Made Simple

Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) help structure loan repayments into fixed monthly amounts. The EMI Calculator simplifies loan planning by showing how different loan amounts, interest rates, and tenures influence total repayment values.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the EMI Calculator

Step 1: Enter the Loan Amount

Enter the total amount you intend to borrow. This amount is the principal on which interest will be calculated.

Typical loan categories:

  • Home Loans: Often cover a percentage of the property's value
  • Car Loans: Usually cover most of the vehicle's cost
  • Personal Loans: Based on eligibility and income

Note: A higher down payment reduces the loan amount and interest payable.

Step 2: Input the Interest Rate

Enter the annual interest rate offered by the lender. Rates vary based on loan type, borrower profile, and market conditions.

Typical ranges (illustrative):

  • Home Loans: Around 8.5%–9.5%
  • Car Loans: Around 9%–11%
  • Personal Loans: Around 11%–18%

Step 3: Select the Loan Tenure

Choose the period over which the loan will be repaid. This significantly affects both the EMI amount and total interest.

Tenure comparison:

  • Shorter Tenure: Higher EMIs, lower total interest
  • Longer Tenure: Lower EMIs, higher total interest

Step 4: Review Your EMI Breakdown

The calculator displays:

  • Monthly EMI: Amount payable every month
  • Total Amount Payable: Loan principal plus interest
  • Total Interest: Cost of borrowing
  • Amortization Schedule: Yearly breakdown of principal and interest portions

Understanding the Amortization Schedule

In most loans, interest forms a larger portion of EMI in the early years. Over time, the principal portion increases.

Illustration: For a ₹30 lakh home loan at 8.5% for 20 years:

  • Early EMIs: Higher interest portion
  • Later EMIs: Higher principal repayment

Practical Examples

Example 1: Home Loan Scenario

Purchase Price: ₹60 lakh

  • Loan Amount: ₹48 lakh
  • Interest Rate: 8.75%
  • Tenure: 20 years

Outputs include:

  • Monthly EMI
  • Total Amount Payable
  • Total Interest

Example 2: Car Loan Comparison

Vehicle Price: ₹12 lakh

Option A: 5-year loan at 10%

  • EMI displayed in calculator

Option B: 7-year loan at 10.5%

  • EMI displayed in calculator

Smart Strategies to Reduce EMI Burden

  • Select appropriate tenure: Choose a tenure aligning with your repayment capacity.
  • Compare interest rates: Rates differ across lenders.
  • Maintain good credit health: A strong credit history may help with eligibility.

EMI Affordability Rule

Financial guidelines often suggest that EMIs remain within a manageable portion of net monthly income. This helps maintain overall financial balance.

Use the EMI Calculator to explore how various parameters influence repayment amounts.

Ready to try it out?

Put what you've learned into practice

Go to Tool