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Overdraft vs loan calculator

Enter the amount needed, the overdraft rate, the loan rate, and the number of days you need the money. The calculator compares the cost of both options over that period.

Result

Difference (overdraft minus loan)

Overdraft cost
Loan cost over the same period

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This calculation is for informational purposes only and does not replace advice from a qualified professional. Formulas and rates may not fit your exact situation — double-check the figures before making decisions.

How it is calculated

Cost for each option = amount × rate ÷ 100 × days ÷ 365 — simple interest for the actual days the money is used. Difference = overdraft cost − loan cost: a positive number means the overdraft costs more.

Overdraft rates are usually higher than ordinary loan rates, but an overdraft has no fixed repayment schedule — you can use the money for exactly as many days as needed, without taking out a loan for a preset term. Over very short periods, that flexibility can outweigh the higher rate.

The calculation uses simple interest for both options, not an annuity loan schedule with a fixed monthly payment — this is an honest comparison of the cost of using the money for a specific number of days, not a full loan schedule with equal payments.

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