How much of your available credit you are using, called your utilization, is one of the biggest factors in your credit score. The lower, the better. Use your own numbers below to see where you stand today, then watch how paying down your balances moves you toward green.
Enter your real numbersAdd the balance and limit for each credit card, line of credit, and overdraft so the meter reflects your actual situation.
See how paying down helpsDrag each balance slider down to watch your zone improve and see how much to reduce your debt to reach green.
Utilization is how much of your available credit you are using right now, shown as a percentage. Owe $300 on a card with a $1,000 limit and that card sits at 30%.
It applies only to revolving credit: credit cards, lines of credit, and overdraft. Loans with fixed payments, like a car loan, student loan, or mortgage, do not count toward it.
Both views matter. Lenders look at your total across every account and at each card on its own, so one maxed out card can sting even when your overall use is low.
A useful tip: the credit bureaus usually see the balance from your monthly statement. Paying a card down before its statement date, not just before the due date, can lower the utilization that gets reported.
As a quick guide, under 30% is best, 50% - 60% is still okay, but once you pass 75% it starts to do real damage.
If keeping up with payments feels like a stretch, you do not have to figure it out alone. A chat with a Credit Counselling Society coach is free, confidential, and judgment free.
Talk to a coach for freeThis tool is for general education only and gives an estimate. Credit scoring also weighs payment history, account age, and other factors, so utilization is just one piece. Your actual scores are set by Equifax and TransUnion.
Credit Counselling Society © 2026