Balance Transfer Calculator — Is a 0% Intro Offer Worth It?
0% intro APR offers can save serious money — or just delay the pain if the balance survives past the promo window. This calculator nets the transfer fee against interest saved so you can judge the offer on numbers.
- Transfer fee
- $180.00
- Balance left when promo ends
- $180.00
How this calculator works
- Savings = interest you'd otherwise pay during the promo window − the transfer fee (3–5% added upfront). Any balance surviving the promo starts accruing at the new card's regular APR, often 25%+.
- The break-even is fast for big balances: a 3% fee equals about 6 weeks of interest at 24% APR.
Frequently asked questions
Does a balance transfer hurt my credit?
A hard inquiry costs a few points short-term, but the new credit line lowers utilization, which usually helps within months. Keep the old card open (at $0) for its history and limit.
What's the catch with 0% offers?
The fee, the cliff at promo end, and the fine print: new purchases may accrue interest immediately, and one late payment can void the 0% rate. Set autopay and don't spend on the transfer card.
Can I transfer between cards from the same bank?
Almost never — issuers don't let you transfer their own debt to their own 0% offer. You'll need a card from a different bank.
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Disclaimer: Results are estimates for educational purposes only and are not tax, legal, or financial advice. Tax rules are simplified (credits, phase-outs, and local taxes may not be modeled). Verify important decisions with the IRS, your state tax authority, or a licensed professional.