What is the highest interest rate that can be charged in Canada?

Asked by: Jarred Dare  |  Last update: July 18, 2026
Score: 5/5 (27 votes)

As of January 1, 2025, the maximum interest rate that can legally be charged in Canada is 35% Annual Percentage Rate (APR), reduced from the previous limit of 60% Effective Annual Rate (EAR). This limit applies to most consumer loans and credit products.

What is the maximum interest rate allowed by law in Canada?

The Criminal Code makes it an offence to: (1) enter into an agreement or arrangement to receive interest at a rate exceeding 60 per cent; and, (2) actually receive interest at a rate exceeding 60 per cent.

What is the highest interest rate you can charge in Canada?

The criminal rate of interest makes it illegal for lenders to charge an interest rate of more than 60%. This rule applies to most lending products in Canada, including: Installment loans. Lines of credit.

Is the 35% rate cap in Canada?

As of January 1, 2025, the criminal interest rate was reduced to a cap of 35% annual percentage rate (APR). Prior to these amendments, the criminal rate of interest was capped at 60% effective annual rate (EAR), which is approximately 48% APR.

Is a 30% interest rate high for a loan?

A 30% APR is reasonable for personal loans only if you have bad credit. It's far from the lowest rate you can get with a higher credit score. Personal loan APRs tend to range from around 4% to 36%.

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38 related questions found

Is a 30% interest rate illegal?

So first, licensed lending entities. So a California finance lender, they are exempt from usury in California. So that means they could charge more than 10% on their loan. That means that they could charge more points on a loan and exceed that 10% cap.

Can you get a 40 year mortgage in Canada?

Are 40-Year Mortgages Allowed in Canada? Yes, 40-year mortgages are allowed in Canada. However, they are not as common as mortgages with a shorter amortization and are only offered by select lenders. This is because longer amortization mortgages are considered riskier for lenders.

What is the 90% rule in Canada tax?

Canada's 90% rule helps non-residents and recent immigrants claim full federal tax credits (like the Basic Personal Amount) if 90% or more of their net worldwide income for the relevant tax year is from Canadian sources; otherwise, credits are prorated (reduced) based on their Canadian residency period, ensuring fairness for those who weren't residents all year. 

Is charging high interest illegal?

While usury is generally illegal, the regulation and enforcement of usury laws vary by state in the United States, as there is no federal standard governing interest rates. States have the authority to determine maximum allowable interest rates and may have exceptions based on loan type or lender category.

How to get a 4% interest rate on a mortgage?

How can I get the lowest mortgage interest rate?

  1. Improve your credit score. ...
  2. Lower your debt-to-income ratio. ...
  3. 3. Make a larger down payment. ...
  4. Buy discount points. ...
  5. Zero-points mortgage rates. ...
  6. Mortgage rate under 5% ...
  7. Get an interest rate buydown. ...
  8. Consider an adjustable-rate mortgage.

What is the predatory interest rate in Canada?

Effective as of January 1, 2025, the criminal rate of interest specified in section 347 of the Criminal Code (Canada) (the Criminal Code) was reduced to an annual percentage rate (APR) that exceeds 35%. Prior to the amendments, the criminal rate of interest was an effective annual rate (EAR) that exceeded 60%.

Can a 65 year old get a mortgage in Canada?

Absolutely, seniors can obtain a mortgage in Canada. Age itself isn't a barrier; the real focus is on your financial situation and the property's value. Lenders are looking at several factors before making a decision. Income Stability: First, your income sources matter.

What is the difference between Canadian and US mortgages?

One key difference between Canadian and U.S. mortgages is the term length: In the U.S. your mortgage term spans the length of the amortization period. So, the mortgage will be paid in full at the end of the term. Canadian mortgages also have an amortization period, which determines the total length of your mortgage.

How much loan can I get on a $70,000 salary?

Based on a monthly salary of ₹70000 and assuming no existing financial obligations (like ongoing EMIs or outstanding credit card dues), you may be eligible for a home loan amount of approximately ₹34.51 lakhs. The interest rate could range between *9.25% and 15% or higher, with a loan tenure of up to 180 months.