Credit utilization calculator
Utilization is your balance divided by your credit limit, and many credit scoring systems look at it. Enter one card per line.
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How to use it
- Enter cards: one per line (name, balance, credit limit) and target utilization.
- The result appears straight away and updates as you edit.
- Copy the result, or copy a link that keeps the same values to share it.
How it is calculated
Utilization = total balances ÷ total limits × 100. Amount to pay down = total balances − (target ratio × total limits).
Example
Inputs: Target utilization = 30 %. Result: Overall utilization: 33.75%; Total balances: 2,700.00; Total limits: 8,000.00.
Limits and caveats
- The target is a common guideline, not an official rule; each scoring model weighs it differently.
- Bureaus usually see the statement balance, not the balance on the day you pay.
Questions about this tool
What ratio is usually recommended?
Under 30% is a widely repeated guideline, and lower tends to score better. No single number guarantees a result.
Per card or overall?
Both can matter, so the calculator shows the overall ratio and each card.
Does closing an unused card raise utilization?
Usually yes, because the total limit drops while the balances stay the same.