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Early repayment charge (ERC)

Cards & borrowing
A fee for paying off a mortgage or loan early during a fixed period.

Overview

ERCs compensate lenders for lost interest.

They can be a percentage of the balance or a set amount.

Why it matters

  • It can make switching deals expensive.
  • It affects whether remortgaging saves money.
  • It should be considered before overpaying.

FAQs

Are ERCs the same as exit fees?

No. ERCs apply during a deal period; exit fees apply when closing.

Can I avoid ERCs?

Some lenders allow limited overpayments without charges.

Related terms

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