- Accrued interest: This is the interest that builds up on your loan balance over time. It’s calculated daily or monthly, and it’s added to your principal balance, increasing your overall debt.
- Capitalization: In some cases, accrued interest can be capitalized, meaning it’s added to your principal balance and starts accruing interest itself. This can significantly increase your loan balance over time.
- Late fees and penalties: If you make late payments on your loan, you may be charged late fees and penalties. These fees are added to your loan balance and increase your overall debt.
- Changes in the interest rate: If your loan has a variable interest rate, your interest rate could increase over time. This can lead to higher monthly payments and a larger overall loan balance.
- Additional borrowing: If you borrow additional money under the same loan agreement, your total loan balance will obviously increase.
- Deferment or forbearance: If you defer or forbear your loan payments, interest will continue to accrue and be added to your principal balance. This can increase your loan balance over time.
- Fees associated with the loan: Some loans have origination fees, closing costs, or other fees that are added to your loan balance upfront. These fees can increase your overall debt
Here are some tips to keep your loan balance from increasing:
- Make your loan payments on time and in full each month.
- Avoid borrowing more money than you need.
- Consider refinancing your loan to a lower interest rate.
- Make extra payments on your loan whenever possible.
- Talk to your lender about options for deferment or forbearance if you’re having trouble making your payments.
By following these tips, you can help keep your loan balance under control and avoid getting into debt over your head.