HELOC Calculator Formula & How It Works
- Draw period: typically 5–10 years, interest-only payments
- Repayment period: typically 10–20 years, fully amortizing
- HELOC rate = Prime Rate + Margin (variable)
- Balance during draw = amount withdrawn from credit line
A HELOC has two phases: the draw period (borrow as needed, pay interest only on the amount drawn) and the repayment period (no more borrowing, balance amortizes over the remaining term). Payment can jump significantly at the start of the repayment period.