Calculate the fee first
Multiply the balance you plan to transfer by the stated fee percentage. A 4% fee on a $5,000 balance is $200, so the new balance begins at $5,200 before any interest. Some cards have a minimum fee, so read the offer terms.
Compare the full promotional period
The key question is whether the interest avoided on the old card exceeds the fee and any interest charged by the new card. Enter the old APR, promotional rate, fee and the payment you can realistically make every month.
Do not treat 0% as extra spending room
A transfer usually works best when it comes with a payoff schedule. Divide the transferred balance including the fee by the number of promotional months, then build a little margin for rounding or a shorter-than-expected offer period. If the balance remains when the offer ends, the new standard APR may apply.
Check the offer details
Confirm the deadline for completing the transfer, whether purchases earn the promotional rate, whether new spending has a different APR and whether a missed payment can end the offer. Continue paying the old card until the transfer is confirmed.
Related calculators
Sources and review notes
Examples were independently calculated using the assumptions shown. Regional limits were checked against the official sources below on 12 October 2026.
This guide is educational information, not personal financial, investment, tax or legal advice.