Tketörlesztés

Tőketörlesztés refers to the repayment of the principal portion of a loan. It reduces the outstanding loan balance and is distinct from interest payments. In most loan agreements, each payment comprises both interest and principal; tőketörlesztés specifically denotes the portion that decreases the principal.

Amortization schedules show how much of each payment goes to interest and to principal over time. Early in the loan, a larger share covers interest, and only a smaller portion reduces the principal; as the balance falls, the interest portion shrinks and more is applied to principal. The total amount paid over the life of the loan is therefore a combination of principal repaid and interest charged.

Common repayment patterns include annuity (fixed total payments) where the principal portion rises gradually, and straight-line amortization where the principal repaid each period is constant. Borrowers may also make extra tőketörlesztés or prepayments to reduce the loan faster; prepayments can shorten the term and reduce total interest, but some agreements impose penalties or restrict prepayments.

In financial reporting and tax contexts, tőketörlesztés affects the balance sheet and cash flow. For lenders, it reduces outstanding liabilities and risk; for borrowers, it improves equity and may affect eligibility for future credit. Availability and tax treatment of principal repayments vary by country and loan type.

See also: amortization, loan, interest, repayment schedule, prepayment.