Example result based on the prefilled values.
Current Cost
R22 854,08
New Cost
R17 821,08
Saving
R5 033,01
Continue your plan
Useful next calculations
When to use this calculator
- Before comparing lenders, brokers, or repayment options.
- When you want to test how a different deposit, rate, or term changes affordability.
- When you need a quick estimate before using a formal quote or agreement in principle.
- When you are stress-testing your budget against a potential rate rise to see the impact on monthly payments.
- When you want to understand the full cost of borrowing — not just the monthly figure — before you commit.
A realistic South Africa planning example
Use these sample inputs as a quick scenario test, then change one variable at a time to compare outcomes.
Total Debt (R)
15000
Current Average APR (%)
5%
Consolidation Loan APR (%)
R1,600,000
Loan Term (Years)
R1,600,000
After entering these figures, review current cost, new cost and saving together rather than in isolation — each metric tells a different part of the story. Then rerun the tool with one input adjusted to see which variable has the biggest effect on all three outputs before you settle on a plan.
How to read your results
Current Cost
Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how changes in the key inputs drive the final outcome. If the figure surprises you, isolate one variable at a time and rerun the calculation to identify which assumption is responsible.
New Cost
Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how changes in the key inputs drive the final outcome. If the figure surprises you, isolate one variable at a time and rerun the calculation to identify which assumption is responsible.
Saving
Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how changes in the key inputs drive the final outcome. If the figure surprises you, isolate one variable at a time and rerun the calculation to identify which assumption is responsible.
Method & assumptionsAuthoritative sources
This calculator compares your current monthly payments and total interest costs across multiple debts against a single consolidation loan. Enter each existing debt with its balance, interest rate, and monthly payment, then input the terms of a proposed consolidation loan to see whether consolidating would save you money overall.
The model assumes all rates remain fixed and that you make minimum or stated payments on existing debts. It does not account for early repayment charges on existing agreements, arrangement fees on the new loan, or changes in your credit profile. UK consumers should also note that secured consolidation loans (against property) carry additional risk not reflected in this interest comparison. This tool provides an estimate for planning purposes and does not constitute regulated financial advice.
Common mistakes
- !Using an assumption that is not supported by a current local quote, bill, statement or official source.
- !Treating a generic estimate as a lender, provider, payroll or tax authority decision.
- !Mixing monthly and annual inputs without converting them consistently.
- !Forgetting location-specific taxes, fees, eligibility rules or payroll deductions where they apply.
- !Testing only one scenario instead of checking how a cautious assumption changes the result.
What to do next
- Run a second scenario with a cautious assumption so you can see the downside clearly.
- Compare the result with the related calculators below before making a decision.
- Check current local rules, eligibility and provider terms before applying or committing money.
- Keep a record of the assumptions so you can update the estimate when a quote, bill or pay figure changes.
- Use the result to prepare better questions for a lender, provider, adviser or employer rather than treating it as a final answer.
Frequently asked
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