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See what paying the minimum really costs.

Credit cards and payday loans both keep you paying interest while the balance barely moves. Enter your numbers and see the true cost — and what paying more would save.

Debt type

01 / MODE

Credit card details

02 / CARD
$
%
%

Escape plan

03 / PAY MORE
$

Most cards set the minimum around 2% of the balance or $25, whichever is greater. This calculator uses a $25 floor when the minimum is a percentage.

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Minimums hide the real price.

Enter your balance or loan terms and see exactly how much the minimum-only path costs you.

Last reviewed: October 2026.

What's next?

Honed Money provides calculators and educational information for general purposes only. It is not financial, tax, legal, investment, or insurance advice. Estimates are based on the information you enter and the assumptions shown. Actual results will vary. For taxes, retirement, and government benefits, verify with IRS.gov, SSA.gov, or VA.gov. We don’t sell financial products and aren’t paid for calculator results. Use at your own risk.