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Credit Card Comparison Calculator

Moneyzine Editor
Author: 
Moneyzine Editor
2 mins
October 4th, 2023
Advertiser Disclosure

This credit card comparison calculator allows you to compare competing offers from two credit card companies. The calculator evaluates your monthly card balance, annual fees, and introductory rates to calculate the cost of each credit card as well as the effective interest rate charged. Studies indicate that in 2021, US credit card holders had an average credit limit of $12,945. However, a small number of credit cards with extremely high limits are thought to have a significant impact on this sum. The typical American consumer's credit card balance limit was $12,890 in 2020, depending on income, credit history, and age.

Calculator Definitions

The variables used in our online calculator are defined in detail below, including how to interpret the results.

Monthly Credit Card Balance ($)

This is the average credit card balance you would carry on each card in a given year. You only need to supply this value for one of the cards you're comparing.

Annual Fees ($ / Year)

This is the annual fee charged by each credit card company, stated in terms of dollars per year.

Introductory Interest Rate (%)

The introductory interest rate is sometimes referred to as a teaser rate. This is the rate of interest each credit card will charge when you initially transfer an existing card balance.

Introductory Term (Months)

The introductory term is the total length of time the introductory interest rate is in-effect, stated in terms of months.

Final Interest Rate (%)

This value is the final interest rate, after the term of the introductory rate has expired. This is the rate of interest charged after a "teaser" is no longer in-effect.

Year One Cost ($)

This value is the total cost of each credit card after 12 months, stated in terms of dollars. The cost includes interest charges as well as fees. This value does not include any payments to reduce the credit card balance.

Effective Interest Rate (%)

This is the effective interest rate charged by each credit card company as determined using the introductory rate, final interest rate, and introductory term.


Credit Card Comparison Calculator


Disclaimer: These online calculators are made available and meant to be used as a screening tool for the investor. The accuracy of these calculations is not guaranteed nor is its applicability to your individual circumstances. You should always obtain personal advice from qualified professionals.

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