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 Nebraska, interest rates on judgments are governed by state statutes, which set forth the rates for both prejudgment and post-judgment interest. Prejudgment interest refers to interest that accrues from the time the money is owed until a judgment is entered, while post-judgment interest accrues from the time the judgment is entered until the amount is paid. As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, Nebraska Revised Statute 45-103.02 specifies that the post-judgment interest rate is set at the rate of 1% above the bond investment yield, as published by the Federal Reserve, for the calendar week preceding the date of the judgment. However, the rate cannot be less than 3.5% per annum nor exceed 9% per annum. Prejudgment interest rates may be different and are often subject to the specifics of the case and the type of claim involved. It is important for parties involved in litigation to consult with an attorney to understand the applicable interest rates for their particular case, as these rates can significantly affect the total amount owed under a judgment.