What term refers to the fee paid to borrow money?

The term that refers to the fee paid to borrow money is interest. When an individual or entity takes out a loan, they agree to pay back the principal amount borrowed plus an additional amount, which is the interest. This interest represents the cost of borrowing the money and is typically expressed as a percentage of the principal. It compensates the lender for the risk taken and the opportunity cost of lending that money instead of using it elsewhere.

Understanding this concept is crucial for managing finances effectively, as interest affects the total cost of borrowing and can significantly impact loan repayment schedules. The other options do not accurately describe the cost of borrowing: dividends are payments made to shareholders from a corporation’s earnings, fees refer to charges for services, and principal is the original sum of money borrowed or invested, excluding interest.