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How to Budget for a Built-In Microwave

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How to Budget for a Built-In Microwave

Clear your countertops and manage the cost of a new microwave and trim kit with a simple, interest-free payment plan.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $300 before anything else
Across the 0% window $20.00/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $300 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Getting a microwave off your counter and into the cabinetry clears up valuable workspace instantly. The actual installation of a trim kit takes under an hour, but the prep work matters. Fall holiday weekends and major holiday sales are the cheapest times to buy kitchen appliances, and you should always get at least two quotes if you are hiring a local handyman to cut the cabinet opening for you.

We can handle this $300 project without draining your checking account all at once. By using a smart card strategy, we can split the cost into small monthly payments and pay zero interest while we get the job done.

Keep in mind that the 15-month window is a hard deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance left when the promotional period ends, the standard variable APR kicks in on whatever is left, so make sure you stick to your $20.00 monthly schedule.

The steps

  1. 01

    Time your purchase

    Look for holiday weekend sales like Memorial Day, Labor Day, or Black Friday when retailers slash appliance prices. This is when you will get the best deal on the microwave and the matching trim kit.

  2. 02

    Measure your space

    Trim kits are highly specific to the microwave model. Double-check your cabinet opening dimensions and buy the exact manufacturer-approved kit, or the pieces will not line up.

  3. 03

    Get two installation quotes

    If you are not comfortable cutting wood or securing the brackets, call two local handymen for quick quotes. It is a simple job, but comparing two prices keeps them honest.

  4. 04

    Put it on the right card

    We want to use the Discover it® Cash Back for this purchase. It offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, which lets us buy the appliance now and pay it off slowly without extra fees.

  5. 05

    Split your payments

    Divide the $300 cost by the 15-month promotional window. If you pay exactly $20.00 per month, you will clear the balance to zero before any interest can kick in.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Can I use any microwave with a trim kit?

No. You usually need to buy the specific trim kit made by the same manufacturer for that exact microwave model. Universal kits exist, but they rarely fit perfectly.

Is it hard to install a microwave trim kit myself?

It is mostly just screwing brackets into the cabinet frame and snapping the metal faceplate into place. If you already have the right-sized cabinet cutout, it takes about 15 minutes.

Why is a trim kit so expensive compared to the microwave?

Trim kits are low-volume specialty items. Manufacturers price them high because they know you need them to get that custom, flush, built-in look.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

You might lose your 0% promotional rate and get hit with a late fee. Set up autopay for at least the $20.00 monthly amount to make sure you stay on track.