Usury rate and APR: what to know
Two acronyms keep coming up when borrowing. Here is how to read them.
Updated 23 October 2026
The APR (TAEG)
The annual percentage rate expresses the total cost of credit as a yearly percentage: it includes interest and mandatory fees (required insurance, arrangement fee, guarantee…). Compare it across offers, not just the nominal rate.
The usury rate
It is the maximum rate lenders may charge. It is set by loan category and reviewed periodically; an APR above it is prohibited. When it is low compared with market conditions, some files are harder to finance.
In practice
Always ask for the APR, check it on the offer and compare total cost.
Frequently asked questions
Nominal rate vs APR?
The nominal rate covers interest only; the APR also includes mandatory fees.
Who sets the usury rate?
It is calculated and published periodically under regulation; the Banque de France publishes it.
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