A finance charge is the total cost a borrower pays for using credit or borrowing money. It usually includes interest charges, but it may also include fees related to a loan, credit card, or financing agreement, such as service fees, loan fees, or late charges.
For example, if you buy an item using a credit card and do not pay the full balance by the due date, the lender may charge interest. That interest, along with any applicable borrowing fees, makes up the finance charge.