Should you consolidate credit card debt?

Consolidation moves balances — it does not erase them. A transfer or personal loan only helps when total interest and fees end up lower than your current path.

0% balance transfer

A promo APR can save interest if you pay off before the rate resets and transfer fees stay small. Model it in the balance transfer calculator and 0% APR payoff calculator.

Personal loan payoff

A fixed installment loan converts revolving debt to a set payment schedule. Compare total cost with the personal loan calculator — watch origination fees and whether you close cards afterward.

When to skip consolidation

If you cannot raise payments, consolidation often extends the problem. Fix cash flow first; see how to get out of debt. For a direct product comparison, read balance transfer vs personal loan.