Credit Card Balance Transfer Calculator
Calculate net dollar savings from a 0% introductory APR balance transfer card after factoring in the upfront 3% to 5% transfer fee.
Balance Transfer Savings Formulas
Transfer Fee = Balance × Fee % | Starting Transfer Balance = Balance + Fee | Net Savings = Interest on Old Card − (Transfer Fee + Transfer Card Interest)- Transfer Fee: Upfront charge (typically 3% or 5%, minimum $5) added directly to the new balance.
- Promotional Period: Standard 0% APR duration (typically 12, 15, 18, or 21 months).
- Post-Promo APR: The regular interest rate that kicks in on any unpaid balance when the intro period expires.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
How to Use This Calculator
Assumptions & Limitations
- Assumes you make regular on-time payments every month to prevent the credit card issuer from revoking your 0% promotional rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't pay off the balance before the 0% period ends?
Any remaining unpaid balance will immediately begin accruing interest at the standard post-promotional APR (often 20% to 28%). Unlike retail store financing, most major bank balance transfers do not charge retroactive deferred interest.
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