Credit Utilization Calculator
Credit utilization is the percentage of your available revolving credit that you are using. It is commonly reported to credit bureaus and can influence credit scoring models.
This tool provides two ways to measure utilization: a quick totals method for aggregate values, and a detailed per-account method for identifying high-utilization cards. Results include overall utilization, highest account utilization, and the gap to a chosen target.
Calculate utilization using a single total credit limit and total balance. Use when you know aggregate figures.
Inputs
Results
Overall utilization (%)
0.00%
Gap to your target (%)
3000.00%
Total credit limit
$0.00
Total revolving balance
$0.00
| Output | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Overall utilization (%) | 0.00% | % |
| Gap to your target (%) | 3000.00% | % |
| Total credit limit | $0.00 | USD |
| Total revolving balance | $0.00 | USD |
Visualization
Methodology
The calculator computes utilization as (balances divided by credit limits) multiplied by 100 to produce a percentage. For totals, it uses the user-provided aggregate values. For detailed mode, it sums per-account limits and balances and computes per-account percentages.
Accuracy depends on timely and complete inputs. Use current statement balances or the most recent posted balances. This tool does not access your credit report; it is a local estimator for planning purposes.
Worked examples
Example 1 — Totals: Total credit limit = 20,000, total balance = 3,000 → utilization = (3,000 ÷ 20,000) × 100 = 15%.
Example 2 — Accounts: Three cards with limits 5,000, 10,000, 5,000 and balances 2,500, 1,000, 0 → overall utilization = (3,500 ÷ 20,000) × 100 = 17.5%; highest account utilization = 50%.
Key takeaways
Use the totals method when you have aggregate figures. Use the accounts method to locate high-utilization cards that may disproportionately affect scoring.
This calculator is an estimator only. For authoritative values, refer to your credit report and statements.
Further resources
External guidance
Expert Q&A
What is a good credit utilization target?
A common target is 30% or lower across revolving accounts. Lower utilization (for example under 10%) may be favorable for some scoring models. Individual lenders and scoring models vary.
Which balances should I use?
Use posted statement balances or most recent posted balances. Avoid unposted pending transactions. If you know what your issuer reports to bureaus, use those figures for best alignment with your credit report.
Will this tool change my credit score?
No. This calculator only estimates utilization percentages for planning. Changes to accounts or balances could affect your credit score when reported to credit bureaus.
Why might the calculator differ from my credit report?
Differences can arise from timing (reporting dates), whether accounts are closed or charged off, and issuer-specific reporting practices. Always cross-check with your credit report for official values.
Sources & citations
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) — https://www.nist.gov
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO) — https://www.iso.org
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) — https://www.ieee.org
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) — https://www.osha.gov