Deferred Interest: The Retail Financing Trick That Could Cost You Big Time

PennyWise: Personal Finance & Travel Tips

Deferred Interest: The Retail Financing Trick That Could Cost You Big Time

Clean

Published on Nov 17, 2025, 8:00:00 AM
Total time: 00:17:24

Episode Description

In this episode of PennyWise, host John Kiernan and guest Adam McCann discuss the dangers of so-called “deferred interest” and how to avoid becoming a victim this holiday shopping season and beyond. John and Adam explain what deferred interest is and how it works, detail when you’re likely to encounter it, and provide tips for how to deal with it, plus ideas for safer alternatives. This financing trick is a lot more common and costly than most people realize, so it could really pay off to learn the ins and outs of this scheme. In addition, John answers some of your questions.

More on this episode from WalletHub: Best 0% APR Credit Cards & Best Budget Apps 

To find the best way to pay for your shopping trips, both during the holidays and throughout the year, check out WalletHub's picks for the best credit cards for shopping.

More about PennyWise: Personal Finance & Travel Tips

PennyWise is a show about money, personal finance, investing and travel. The program features a variety of financial experts who can help save you money.