Is a balance transfer worth it?

Usually yes if you can pay off most/all of the balance during the 0% period. The fee (1-3%) is typically far less than the interest you'd pay otherwise.

What happens if I don't pay it off in time?

The remaining balance starts accruing interest at the revert rate (often 20%+). You still saved on the interest during the 0% period, but ongoing costs increase.

Can I do another balance transfer when 0% ends?

Yes, but it gets harder. Each application affects your credit score, and you may not qualify for the best offers. Plan to pay it off, not roll it over.

§ Tool · tier 1 · independent

Balance Transfer Calculator.

Calculate savings from transferring your balance to a 0% interest card

CalculatorFree, no signupOn-deviceupd May 2026

Inputs

Your numbers

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Move the sliders or type in the form on the left — the math updates live as you go. Click Get AI verdict when you want a written analysis.

Balance transfers can save thousands in interest - but only if you pay off the balance before the promotional period ends. This calculator shows your true savings after fees.

§ Worked examples

Real-world scenarios

$8,000 Balance Transfer

$8,000 from 20% card to 0% for 24 months, 2% fee, $400/month payments.

Inputs

balance:8,000currentRate:20period:24fee:2payment:400

Transfer fee: $160. Without transfer: 22 months, $1,567 interest. With transfer: 20 months, $160 fee only. Net savings: $1,407!

§ FAQ

Questions Australians ask

§ Glossary

Plain-English definitions

Balance Transfer

Moving debt from one credit card to another, usually to take advantage of a lower interest rate.

Promotional Rate

A temporary low or 0% interest rate offered for a set period to attract balance transfers.

Revert Rate

The standard interest rate that applies after the promotional period ends.

§ Pair it with

Related tools

Interest Calculator

Calculate current interest costs

Payoff Calculator

Plan your payoff strategy

Card Comparison

Compare balance transfer cards

How to use

01Enter your current balance and interest rate
02Add the new card's transfer terms (rate, period, fee)
03Set your planned monthly payment
04Include any annual fee on the new card
05Compare total cost with and without transfer

Key info

0% periods typically range from 12-30 months
Transfer fees are usually 1-3% of the balance
Rate after promo is often 20%+ (higher than average)
You must make minimum payments or lose the 0% rate

Pro tips

Divide balance by promo months to get required monthly payment
Set up auto-pay to never miss a payment (they cancel 0% if you do!)
Don't use the new card for purchases - different rates may apply
If you won't pay it off, you might still save but less than expected

Avoid these

Not paying off balance before promo ends
Missing a payment and losing the 0% rate
Making new purchases on the balance transfer card
Not accounting for the transfer fee in savings

Disclaimer: Estimates only. Interest rates, fees and policies change frequently. Always verify with lenders directly. General information, not personal financial advice.

Last updated · May 2026