What counts as a cash advance?

ATM withdrawals, bank over-the-counter cash, casino chips/gambling, cryptocurrency purchases, money orders, wire transfers. Some cards treat PayPal transfers as cash advances too.

Why is cash advance so expensive?

Banks consider it high-risk - you're essentially borrowing cash with limited ability to recover if you default. The high fees and rates are meant to discourage the behavior.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

Almost anything: bank overdraft, personal loan, borrowing from family, even some buy-now-pay-later for bills. Cash advances should be absolute last resort.

Cash Advance Calculator

Calculator

Calculate the true cost of credit card cash advances and ATM withdrawals

Free to useNo data storedAI insightsUpdated: February 2026

Cash advances are one of the most expensive ways to borrow money. No interest-free period, high rates, and immediate fees. This calculator shows you the true cost.

Enter Your Details

Real-World Examples

Emergency $500 Cash Advance

$500 cash advance at 22% rate, 3% fee ($15), repaid in 30 days.

Inputs Used:

amount:500rate:22fee:3days:30

Fee: $15. Interest for 30 days: $9.04. Total cost: $24.04 for borrowing $500 for one month. That's an effective rate of over 57% p.a.!

Frequently Asked Questions

Glossary

Cash Advance

Withdrawing cash from your credit card - treated as a loan with immediate interest.

Cash Advance Rate

A higher interest rate that applies to cash withdrawals, typically 22-25%.

Cash Equivalent

Transactions treated like cash: casino chips, crypto purchases, money orders, some BPAY.

Related Tools

Interest Calculator

Understand interest costs

Balance Transfer

Move debt to 0% card

Foreign Transaction

Overseas ATM costs

How to Use

1Enter the cash amount you need
2Add your card's cash advance rate
3Include the fee percentage and minimum
4Add any ATM fees
5See the total cost

Key Information

Cash advance rates are typically 22-25% (higher than purchase rate)
NO interest-free period - interest starts immediately
Fees typically 2-4% or $3-5 minimum, whichever is higher
Interest compounds daily on cash advances

Pro Tips

Avoid cash advances whenever possible
Consider alternatives: bank overdraft, personal loan, even PayDay loans can be cheaper
If you must use, pay back immediately
Check if BPAY payments count as cash advances (some do)

Avoid These Mistakes

Thinking cash advances have interest-free period (they don't)
Not realizing some transactions count as cash advances
Using credit card abroad at ATMs (double hit: advance + forex)
Letting cash advance balance sit while paying regular purchases

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only and should not be relied upon for financial decisions. Interest rates, fees, and policies change frequently. Always verify information with lenders directly. This is general information, not personal financial advice. Consider seeking advice from a licensed mortgage broker or financial advisor.

Last updated: February 2026