How Much Does a Cash Advance Really Cost?
A credit card cash advance lets you withdraw cash against your card's cash limit instantly, with no separate approval process — but it typically carries a much higher APR than regular purchases, often 20% or more. Interest is calculated by applying the APR to the amount and prorating it by the exact number of days you carry the balance, and most issuers tack on a separate cash advance fee as well.
This calculator takes your advance amount, APR, days outstanding, and cash advance fee to compute your estimated interest, fee, and the total you'll owe. Even a short borrowing period can add up to a surprisingly high effective cost, so if you need money urgently, it's worth comparing this against alternatives like an overdraft or personal loan rate.
Cash advances are convenient, but using them frequently or maxing out your cash limit can hurt your credit score. Use them only when truly necessary, keep the amount as small as possible, and make sure not to miss the repayment date.
Frequently Asked Questions
A cash advance is a small, short-term withdrawal against your card's cash limit, while a card-based personal loan involves a larger amount repaid over a longer term. Rates and repayment structures differ.
The APR is applied to the amount and prorated by the exact number of days you carry the balance. Many issuers also add a separate cash advance fee on top.
Using one can hurt your score, especially if you do it often or max out your cash limit, since it signals higher credit risk to scoring models.