Credit Card Glossary: Terms and Definitions

Revolving balance

In credit card terms, a revolving balance is the portion of credit card spending that goes unpaid at the end of a billing cycle. The amount can vary, going up or down depending on the amount borrowed and the amount repaid. If you revolve a balance — that is, not pay it off at the end of the month — the lender will charge you for the privilege of borrowing their money. The amount of the charge for revolving a balance will depend on the size of the balance and the interest rate of the card. When the balance is paid off, the customer is no longer revolving the debt.

Terms from A-Z

Search the CreditCards.com glossary for every credit-related term from "account holder" to "zombie debt." Select a letter for alphabetized terms and definitions.

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