What does the term "deferred interest" mean in lending?

The term "deferred interest" refers to a situation in lending where interest accrues on a loan but is not payable until a later date. This means that while the borrower may not be making interest payments during the deferral period, the interest continues to accumulate and will typically be added to the principal balance of the loan once the deferment period ends. This concept is often found in certain types of loans, such as promotional financing offers from credit cards or some promotional loans, where the borrower can delay payments without facing immediate financial obligation.

Understanding this term is crucial for borrowers because, although they may not see immediate payments, the accumulated interest can significantly impact the total repayment amount once it becomes payable.