This tool estimates potential savings from moving high-interest credit card debt to a new card with a lower interest rate, often 0% for a promotional period. It requires inputting the outstanding balance, current interest rate, balance transfer fee, and the duration of the promotional period. The result is a projection of interest saved and the time needed to pay off the debt under the new terms.
The significance lies in facilitating informed financial decisions. By quantifying the potential savings, individuals can assess the viability of transferring their balances. Historically, these tools have become increasingly sophisticated, incorporating features like amortization schedules and comparisons of multiple card offers, empowering users to optimize their debt repayment strategies. The primary benefit is financial: reducing the total cost of borrowing and accelerating debt elimination.