Smart Calculator

Credit Card Calculator

Credit Card Calculator

Calculate how long it will take to pay off your credit card debt and see how much interest you'll pay.

Credit Card Calculator

Credit Card Information

%

Payment Strategy

Payoff Results
Your debt payoff breakdown

Enter your credit card information to see payoff results

How to Use the Calculator
  1. Enter Credit Card Details: Input your current balance and annual interest rate (APR)
  2. Choose Payment Strategy: Select from fixed payment, fixed timeframe, or minimum payment options
  3. Set Payment Parameters: Enter your monthly payment amount, desired payoff time, or minimum payment percentage
  4. Review Results: See your payoff timeline, total interest, and detailed payment schedule
Formulas Behind the Calculation

Monthly Interest Rate

Monthly Rate = Annual Rate ÷ 12

Balance Recurrence

New Balance = Previous Balance × (1 + Monthly Rate) - Payment

Fixed Payment: Payoff Time

n = ln(P / (P - B₀ × r)) ÷ ln(1 + r)

Fixed Timeframe: Required Payment

P = B₀ × r × (1+r)ⁿ ÷ ((1+r)ⁿ - 1)

Example Scenarios

Scenario 1: Aggressive Payoff

  • • Balance: $5,000
  • • APR: 18.99%
  • • Payment: $300/month
  • • Result: ~19 months, $850 interest

Scenario 2: Minimum Payment

  • • Balance: $5,000
  • • APR: 18.99%
  • • Payment: 2% of balance
  • • Result: ~30+ years, $15,000+ interest
Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to pay off my credit card?

The payoff time depends on your balance, interest rate, and monthly payment. Higher payments significantly reduce both time and total interest paid.

How do I calculate minimum payments?

Minimum payments typically include the monthly interest plus 1-3% of the principal balance. This calculator shows how long minimum payments take to pay off debt.

What's the best way to reduce credit card interest?

Pay more than the minimum, consider balance transfers to lower-rate cards, or look into debt consolidation loans with lower interest rates.

Should I pay off high-interest debt first?

Yes, the "avalanche method" of paying high-interest debt first saves the most money. Pay minimums on all cards, then put extra money toward the highest-rate card.