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Calconomics

Minimum Payment Trap Calculator

Paying just the minimum keeps you in debt for years and can cost more in interest than the original balance. Enter your balance, APR, and minimum-payment rule to see exactly how long it takes and what it really costs.

The card

$
%
% of balance
$
Years to pay off
68.08
Total interest paid
$35,958
Total paid
$40,958
US$9.99 · download & own it forever
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How it's calculated

Our methodology & 2026 data sources →

Frequently asked questions

Why does the minimum keep me in debt?
Because it's a small percentage of a shrinking balance, much of your early payment is just interest. The payoff drags on for years.
What helps most?
Paying a fixed amount above the minimum (or a flat amount) dramatically cuts both time and interest — try the credit card payoff calculator.

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