Four calculators
Four small tools, each answering one specific question with your own numbers.
Which debit card type actually fits you?
Answer a few questions about how you spend and travel to see which debit card type is worth comparing first.
Assumptions this uses
- Assumes typical published rewards rates and fee ranges for common card types, not one named issuer
- Uses your entered monthly spend as a flat monthly figure, not seasonal variation
- Travel comparison assumes a 1% to 3% foreign transaction fee range on traditional cards
Limitations: Does not account for sign-up bonuses, promotional rates, or a specific issuer's current terms — confirm the exact numbers with the provider before deciding.
Runs entirely in your browser.
Ask what fraud rules apply before you pick a card, not after
Debit card disputes run under Regulation E, and how quickly you report a lost card or unauthorized charge changes your maximum liability. Know the reporting window for your specific card before something goes wrong, not while you're on hold trying to fix it.
Compare two accounts' annual cost
Enter the monthly fee and any other regular charges for two accounts to see the real annual difference.
Assumptions this uses
- Multiplies each monthly figure by twelve for an annual total
- Does not include one-time fees like a card replacement charge unless you add them to the monthly figure yourself
Limitations: Does not include the value of rewards earned on either account — pair this with the card matcher if rewards are part of your decision.
Runs entirely in your browser.
The Debit Card Comparison Worksheet
A fillable worksheet for comparing debit card and account options before you switch.
Get the free guide →What is overdrafting actually costing you?
Enter how often you overdraft and the fee charged to see the real annual cost of your current pattern.
Assumptions this uses
- Multiplies your monthly overdraft count by the fee, then by twelve months
- Assumes a flat per-occurrence fee, which is how most traditional banks charge it
Limitations: Does not account for extended overdraft fees some banks add after a balance stays negative for several days.
Runs entirely in your browser.
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See real debit card and account options side by side
Once you know which type of card actually fits your situation, comparing real options is the next practical step.
Compare accounts →Where is your money actually going?
Enter your take-home income and spending by category to see what's left each month before card fees eat into it.
Assumptions this uses
- Uses your take-home (after-tax) income, not gross income
- Each category is shown as a dollar amount and as a percentage of income
- Left to save or clear debt is income minus every category entered
Limitations: Does not account for irregular annual costs like insurance premiums or holidays unless you divide them into a monthly twelfth yourself and add them to a category.
Runs entirely in your browser.
Ask what fraud rules apply before you pick a card, not after
Debit card disputes run under Regulation E, and how quickly you report a lost card or unauthorized charge changes your maximum liability. Know the reporting window for your specific card before something goes wrong, not while you're on hold trying to fix it.