More in Debt & Purchase
What this calculator does
This calculator runs a hard affordability check. It flags whether you have an emergency fund, free cash flow, and whether you have waited 48 hours before buying.
The math
Affordability depends on whether the price fits your income after expenses, whether you have an emergency fund, and whether high-interest debt is paid off.
Worked example
A $300 purchase with $3,000 income, $2,000 expenses, 3 months of emergency fund, and 12% debt APR is approved if you have waited 48 hours.
Why this matters
Most people underestimate the cost of small interest and fee decisions. This calculator turns the hidden math into a number you can act on today.
Methodology and transparency
This page publishes the exact formula used to compute the result, so you can verify it in a spreadsheet or check the assumptions against your own situation. The worked example uses the tool default inputs; change any number and the result updates live in your browser. No data is sent or stored.
Common questions
What is the 48-hour rule?
Waiting 48 hours before a non-essential purchase reduces impulse spending. If you still want it, it is more likely a real need.
Does it consider my credit score?
No. It only looks at cash flow, emergency fund, and debt cost.
What if I have high-interest debt?
The calculator flags high-interest debt as a reason to delay the purchase and put the money toward the debt instead.