Free tools › Late fee cost

What does paying a bill late really cost?

A $35 fee on a $120 bill you pay two weeks late is the same as borrowing that money at over 700% a year. This calculator shows the true cost — and helps you see which bill is cheaper to delay when you have to pick.

Runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you type is sent or saved.

Which of two bills is cheaper to delay?

Sometimes you can pay one bill now and one later. If neither threatens a shutoff, eviction, repossession, coverage lapse, or court deadline, cost can decide.

What this calculator does and doesn't know

• It uses the fee you enter. Late fees are set by the biller and your agreement. Look for "late fee," "late charge," or "penalty" on the bill, or call and ask.
• Interest is a simple estimate. Credit cards compound daily and may charge interest on the whole balance once you carry one; the real number can be a bit higher.
• It doesn't know consequences. A cheap-to-delay bill can still be the one that gets your power shut off. Rank by consequence first with which bill first?.
• Late fees are often waivable. Card issuers commonly waive a first late fee on request; utilities and landlords sometimes will too. Here's what to say.

A planning tool, not financial or legal advice. Your billers' and your state's actual rules control.