Minimum Payment Formula:
From: | To: |
The minimum payment calculation determines the smallest amount you must pay on your credit card balance transfer each month. It's typically the greater of a fixed dollar amount or a percentage of your balance plus any interest and fees.
The calculator uses the minimum payment formula:
Where:
Explanation: The calculation ensures you pay at least the minimum required amount, which is either a fixed minimum or a percentage-based amount plus any additional charges.
Details: Understanding your minimum payment helps with budgeting, avoids late fees, maintains good credit standing, and provides insight into how long it will take to pay off your balance transfer.
Tips: Enter all values in USD. The fixed amount, percentage, balance, interest, and fees must be non-negative numbers. The percentage should be entered as a whole number (e.g., 3 for 3%).
Q1: Why is there both a fixed amount and percentage calculation?
A: Credit card issuers use whichever amount is higher to ensure they receive a meaningful payment each month, especially on smaller balances.
Q2: What happens if I only make the minimum payment?
A: You'll avoid late fees but will pay more interest over time and take much longer to pay off your balance.
Q3: Are balance transfer minimum payments different from regular credit card payments?
A: They're calculated the same way, but balance transfers often have special terms like introductory 0% APR periods.
Q4: Can the minimum payment change over time?
A: Yes, as your balance decreases or if interest rates change, your minimum payment will adjust accordingly.
Q5: Should I pay more than the minimum payment?
A: Yes, paying more than the minimum reduces interest costs and helps you pay off debt faster.