Interest rates are compensation for the time-value of money, and are calculated on judgments (the amount of money one party to a lawsuit is ordered to pay another party) based on the applicable state or federal statutes. There are often different interest rates set by law for prejudgment interest (the interest on the amount owed before the judgment) and post-judgment interest (the interest on the amount owed after the judgment). The calculation of prejudgment and post-judgment interest rates vary from state to state (and in federal court), and require a careful analysis of the statutes.

In North Dakota, interest rates on judgments are governed by state law, which sets forth the rates for both prejudgment and post-judgment interest. Prejudgment interest is the interest accrued from the time the money is owed until a judgment is entered. North Dakota Century Code (NDCC) 32-03-04 specifies that unless there is a written contract stating otherwise, prejudgment interest is calculated at the rate of six percent per annum. Post-judgment interest, which accrues after a judgment is entered, is addressed under NDCC 28-20-34. As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, the post-judgment interest rate in North Dakota is the same as the prejudgment rate unless the judgment specifies otherwise. It is important to note that these rates are subject to change by legislative action, and parties involved in litigation should verify the current rates and any specific provisions that may apply to their case.