Australia
Credit Card Revert Rate Explained: What Happens When Your Australian 0% Deal Ends
The revert rate is the purchase rate that returns when the promo stops. On most cards it is over 20%.
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- What it is
- Standard rate after a promo ends
- Typical level
- 20%-22%
- Applies to
- The whole remaining balance
- Practical fix
- Balance transfer or refinance
The revert rate is the real rate
A 0% offer is a short discount on a card whose normal rate is 20%+. The revert rate is what you will pay for most of the card life.
It applies instantly and to everything
The day the promo ends the entire balance reverts. There is no staged increase and no grace on existing debt.
Check the revert rate before the promo rate
A card with 0% for 12 months and a 22% revert is worse than one with 0% for 9 months and a 17% revert if you will carry a balance afterwards.
Plan the exit at the start
Set a reminder for two months before the promo ends. Transfer or clear it before the revert rate applies.
VerdictJudge the card by its revert rate, not its promo. Plan the exit on day one.
FAQ
Does the revert rate change?▾
It is variable and moves with the cash rate.
Can it apply early?▾
On a missed payment, often yes.
Is a balance transfer cheaper?▾
Almost always, if you can get one.
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