If you’re trying to pay off credit card debt, balance transfer cards can really help. These cards let you move your balances to a new card with little to no interest for a while, which can save you a surprising amount.
The top balance transfer credit cards usually give you long intro APR periods, low fees, and clear terms. Figuring out which one fits your needs might make a big difference in how much you actually save.
Picking the right card means looking at stuff like how long the 0% APR lasts, what fees you’ll pay to transfer balances, and your credit score. Some cards toss in rewards or sign-up bonuses, but the main goal is to cut the cost of your debt.
You can find cards with up to 24 months of no interest. If you plan things out, that’s a real shot at getting out of debt faster.
You want to know the details before you apply. Surprises like high fees or short intro periods are no fun.
Key Takeways
- The best cards give you long 0% APR windows so you pay less interest.
- Low or zero balance transfer fees mean you save more.
- Knowing your credit and the card’s terms boosts your odds of approval and helps you get the most out of the deal.
What Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card?
A balance transfer credit card lets you move debt from one card to another—usually to save money on interest. These cards offer special deals to cut or pause the interest you pay.
Knowing how they work and what offers are out there helps you pick the right one.
How Balance Transfers Work
With a balance transfer, you move debt from a high-interest card to one with a lower or 0% intro APR. That’s how you save money and pay off debt faster.
You’ll need to apply for a balance transfer card and get approved based on your credit. After that, you ask the new card issuer to pay off your old card directly.
Most balance transfers come with a fee—usually around 3% to 5% of what you transfer. The 0% APR period lasts anywhere from 12 to 21 months.
Benefits of Using Balance Transfer Cards
Balance transfer cards help you pay less interest, so knocking out debt gets easier. The 0% APR gives you a break from interest piling up.
Some cards can even help your credit score by lowering your credit utilization ratio. Lower interest means you keep more cash for other things.
A few cards throw in bonuses or rewards when you open the account. Just watch the fees and make sure you pay off the balance before the intro offer ends.
Main Types of Balance Transfer Offers
Most cards give you a 0% intro APR for a set time—usually 12 to 24 months. That’s your window to pay down transfers with no interest.
Some cards have low ongoing rates after the intro period, but others don’t. Always check the terms.
Fees vary, too. Some cards skip the fee for a few months, but most charge around 3%. Look at both the fee and the length of the 0% APR when you compare.
If you want a deeper dive, check out the best balance transfer credit cards.
Key Features of the Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
When you’re picking a balance transfer card, you want to focus on three things: how long the 0% intro APR lasts, what the transfer fee costs, and the credit limit you get.
These really shape how much you’ll save and how fast you can pay off your debt.
0% Intro APR and Introductory APR Period
A 0% intro APR means you pay no interest on what you transfer for a certain time. These periods run from 12 to 24 months.
Longer intro APR periods give you more time to pay off debt without extra charges. Once the promo ends, though, the regular APR kicks in.
It’s smart to look for a card with a clear, long intro period. Some cards go up to 24 months, which can be a game changer.
Balance Transfer Fee Structure
Balance transfer fees are pretty standard. Most cards charge 3% to 5% of what you move.
So, if you transfer $5,000 and the fee is 3%, you’ll pay $150 right out of the gate.
This fee cuts into your savings, so compare cards by both the intro APR and the fee. Some cards waive the transfer fee for a few months, which is handy.
Always check if the fee hits right away or if there’s a delay. Lower fees mean more savings.
Credit Limit Considerations
Your credit limit decides how much debt you can move. Some cards let you transfer up to 95% of your limit, but most stick to 50% to 80%.
If your limit’s too low, you might not move all the debt you want. Before you apply, figure out how much you need to transfer and see if the card can handle it.
Higher limits can help your credit score by lowering your credit utilization. A bigger limit gives you more flexibility during the intro APR period.
Pick a card where your limit lines up with your payoff goals.
Top Picks for Balance Transfer Credit Cards in 2025
There are cards out there with long 0% APR periods, no annual fees, or even rewards like cash back. The best pick really depends on what you want—lower interest, fewer fees, or maybe some rewards while you pay down debt.
Best With Long 0% Intro APR
Cards that give you a long 0% intro APR on balance transfers make it easier to pay off debt with no interest for months.
The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card stands out with up to 21 months of 0% APR on both balance transfers and purchases.
The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card also offers 21 months at 0% APR on balance transfers. These long periods are great if you need time to chip away at your balance.
Remember, after the intro period, the APR can jump to anywhere from 17% to 29%. Try to pay off as much as you can before then.
Best No Annual Fee Options
If you’re not into paying extra, several top balance transfer cards skip the annual fee. That’s more money in your pocket.
The Discover it® Cash Back card gives you 0% APR on balance transfers for 18 months and doesn’t charge an annual fee. Plus, you get cash back in rotating categories.
Another good option is the U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card. It has 0% APR for 18 billing cycles on transfers and purchases, plus some extra perks, all without an annual fee.
Best Rewards & Cash Back Cards
Some cards mix a 0% APR offer with cash back rewards. That way, you save on interest and earn a little extra.
The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card gives you 0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases. You also get bonus cash back for dining and entertainment.
The Discover it® Cash Back card comes with 0% APR for 18 months on transfers and purchases, and 5% cash back in categories that change every quarter.
If you want rewards and need to manage debt, these cards can work well.
For more details, check out the best balance transfer credit cards for 2025.
Detailed Reviews: Recommended Balance Transfer Cards
Choosing the right balance transfer card really comes down to the 0% APR period, fees, and any rewards. Here are a few cards that stand out for balance transfers and could help you save on interest.
Wells Fargo Reflect Card
The Wells Fargo Reflect Card gives you up to 21 months of 0% APR on balance transfers. That’s one of the longest periods out there.
You’ll pay a 3% balance transfer fee or $5, whichever is more. There aren’t any rewards, but this card is all about cutting your interest costs.
After the intro period, the APR goes up and it’s variable. You’ll need good to excellent credit to get approved.
If you want the longest interest-free period, this card is worth a look.
Chase Freedom Unlimited
Chase Freedom Unlimited mixes balance transfer perks with cash back rewards. You get 0% APR on balance transfers for 15 months.
The transfer fee is 3%. What makes this card different is the 1.5% cash back on everything you buy.
You’ll need good to excellent credit to qualify. If you want a balance transfer deal and ongoing rewards, this card could fit.
Citi Simplicity Card
Citi Simplicity is all about making debt easier to handle. It offers up to 21 months of 0% APR on balance transfers.
No late fees or penalty APR if you miss a payment. The transfer fee is 5% (minimum $5), or 3% if you transfer within four months of opening.
You won’t earn rewards, but if you want a straightforward card with long-term relief from interest and penalties, this one’s solid. Good credit is usually required.
For more info, check the Forbes Advisor review.
Balance Transfer Credit Card Issuers & Their Offers
There are plenty of issuers to choose from when it comes to balance transfer cards. Each one offers different perks, intro APR periods, and rules that can affect how much you save.
Knowing the details helps you find the best fit.
Highlights from Major Issuers
Chase has cards with solid balance transfer terms and rewards. Some give you 0% intro APR on balance transfers for up to 15 months, plus bonus cash back or points if you spend a certain amount early on.
American Express usually offers longer 0% APR periods—sometimes up to 21 billing cycles. Amex cards may also have rewards, but they can be tougher to get if your credit isn’t strong.
Bank of America gives you competitive balance transfer offers, with intro APRs running 12 to 18 months. Sometimes they even waive the transfer fee for a bit, which is a nice bonus.
Application processes and credit score needs can vary by issuer. Watch out for balance transfer fees—usually a percentage of what you transfer—when comparing cards.
Are Balance Transfer Credit Cards Worth It?
In most cases, balance transfer credit cards can save you a lot on interest—if you use them right. The trick is to pay off your debt before the 0% APR period ends, or you could get hit with high rates and fees.
Comparing Introductory APR Window
The length of the 0% APR period is what really matters with balance transfer cards. Most cards give you between 12 and 21 months to pay off your transferred balance without interest.
Chase cards usually offer about 15 months of no interest. American Express sometimes goes up to 21 billing cycles, which is nearly two years.
Bank of America cards often land between 12 and 18 months. These windows can make a big difference, especially if your balance is large.
The 0% APR only applies to balance transfers, not new purchases. Once the intro period ends, the regular APR kicks in—and that can be steep.
Try to pay off your balance before the 0% window closes. Otherwise, you could end up right back where you started.
Check if the card charges a balance transfer fee. It’s often 3% to 5% of the transfer amount and can eat into your savings.
Issuer-Specific Transfer Rules
Credit card issuers each set their own rules for balance transfers. Chase usually lets you move balances from several cards, but some offers cap the total you can transfer.
American Express often limits transfers to new accounts or requires you to transfer within a certain timeframe after opening. They might also have stricter rules about what types of debt qualify.
Bank of America typically allows transfers from other banks’ cards but not their own. They’ll also set minimum and maximum transfer limits.
Timing matters. Some issuers want you to complete transfers within a few months of opening the account to get the intro APR.
Missing these deadlines means you could pay more in interest. Always read the terms before you apply.
For more on balance transfer offers, check out Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards Of 2025 – Forbes Advisor.
Understanding Credit Scores & Approval Odds
Your credit score is a big deal when you apply for balance transfer cards. Lenders want to see that you’re a responsible borrower.
A better credit score means better offers and higher odds of approval.
What Credit Score Do You Need?
Most top balance transfer cards want a good to excellent credit score—usually 700 or above. If you’re below 700, you might still get approved, but the best deals could be out of reach.
Cards for average credit (650–700) usually have fewer perks and shorter 0% periods. Check the card’s requirements or use matching tools based on your score.
Factors Impacting Approval
Lenders don’t just look at your score. They check:
- Credit utilization: Lower is better.
- Payment history: On-time payments help a lot.
- Length of credit history: Older accounts look good.
- New credit inquiries: Too many recent checks can hurt you.
- Debt-to-income ratio: Lenders want to know you can handle monthly payments.
All these details help decide your interest rates and credit limits.
Improving Your Creditworthiness
If you want better approval odds and terms, focus on a few things.
Pay down your balances to keep utilization low. Always pay on time. Don’t apply for a bunch of cards at once.
Keep old accounts open. Check your credit report for errors and fix any you find.
Raising your credit score takes time, but these steps help. If you’re patient, you’ll qualify for longer 0% APR periods and lower costs.
For more, see CardRates or CNBC.
Fees and Costs to Consider
Balance transfer cards can save you money, but only if you watch the fees and rates. Some costs sneak up on you if you’re not careful.
Balance Transfer Fees Explained
Nearly every balance transfer card charges a fee when you move your debt. It’s usually 3% to 5% of the amount, with a $5 minimum.
So, if you transfer $3,000 at 3%, you’ll pay $90 upfront. Some cards offer lower fees for a short period after opening, but they can rise later.
A few cards skip the transfer fee, but they’re rare. Always check the fee before you apply.
Variable APR vs. Regular APR
After your intro period, the variable APR takes over. This rate changes with the prime rate and your credit profile.
Intro APRs are often 0% for 12 to 21 months. Once that ends, regular APR—often 17% to 29%—applies.
Regular APR also covers new purchases and sometimes cash advances. If you carry a balance, interest piles up fast.
Know your rates so you can pay off your balance before the variable APR kicks in.
Other Potential Charges
There are other fees to watch for:
- Late payment fees: Can be $30 or more and might raise your APR.
- Annual fees: Most balance transfer cards have none, but some premium ones do.
- Cash advance fees: Usually 3% to 5%, plus a higher APR.
- Returned payment fees: If a payment bounces.
Read the terms so you don’t get tripped up by hidden costs.
For more info, check out best balance transfer credit cards of 2025.
How to Maximize Savings With Balance Transfers
If you want to save the most, you’ve got to pay off your debt before the promo period ends. It’s all about timing and discipline.
Paying Down Debt Before Intro APR Ends
The best way to save is to pay off as much as you can before the 0% APR ends. Most cards give you 12 to 21 months.
Figure out a monthly payment by dividing your balance by the number of months in your offer. Don’t just pay the minimum—it won’t get you far.
Avoiding Interest Accrual
Even with a 0% APR, missing payments or ignoring fees can cost you. Late payments might end your promo rate early, and then the regular APR—often over 20%—applies.
Balance transfer fees add to your total debt, so include them in your calculations. Always pay on time and know your card’s terms.
Optimizing Credit Utilization Ratio
Your credit utilization ratio is how much of your available credit you’re using. Keep it below 30% if you can.
Pay down other cards while you focus on your transferred debt. Don’t add new charges to your balance transfer card.
Managing your limits and balances helps your credit score and saves you money.
For more tips, check out best balance transfer credit cards of June 2025 or maximizing savings with balance transfers.
Steps for Making a Successful Balance Transfer
Getting a balance transfer right means paying attention at every step. Organization is your friend here.
Applying and Account Opening Tips
Before you apply, check if your credit score fits the card’s requirements. Fill out the application carefully—mistakes can slow things down.
Most cards let you request the balance transfer during the application. Have your card numbers and balances handy.
Look at the card’s terms before you hit submit. Watch for transfer fees, the length of the 0% APR, and the regular APR after.
Make sure your new credit limit covers the amount you want to transfer. Once approved, activate your card and learn when your billing cycle starts.
Set up online access to track your account and transfer status.
Transferring Balances Effectively
When you transfer balances, enter exact amounts and account details. Double-check everything so payments go to the right place.
Transfers can take a billing cycle or two, so watch both your new and old accounts for changes. The transferred amount should show as a credit on your old card and a balance on the new one.
Don’t add new charges to your old cards during this time. If you’re moving multiple balances, make sure you don’t go over your new card’s limit.
Monitoring Billing Cycles and Payments
Once the transfer’s done, track your billing cycles and due dates. Late payments can end your 0% APR deal early.
Log in often to check payments and balances. Set up reminders or automatic payments for at least the minimum due—ideally more.
If you spot mistakes on your statement, contact customer service right away. Staying on top of payments is key to making the most of your balance transfer.
For a deeper dive, see how to transfer credit card balances effectively.
Potential Drawbacks and Risks of Balance Transfer Cards
Balance transfer cards aren’t perfect. They can save you money, but there are plenty of pitfalls.
Drawbacks of Balance Transfers
You’ll probably pay a fee—usually 3% to 5% of what you transfer. That can eat into your savings, especially on big balances.
Most cards want good to excellent credit. Not everyone will qualify.
The 0% APR period is limited, often 12 to 18 months. If you don’t pay off your balance in time, the regular APR kicks in and can be high.
Applying for new credit can ding your score a little at first, too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A lot of people transfer more debt than they can pay off during the 0% period. If there’s a balance left, the regular interest rate applies—sometimes higher than your old card.
Don’t ignore the transfer fee. Add it to your calculations to see if you’re really saving money.
Missing payments is a big problem. One late payment can cancel your 0% APR and trigger a penalty rate.
What Happens After the Introductory Period
When the 0% APR ends, your rate jumps to the regular APR—maybe 15% to 25% or more. If you haven’t paid off your balance, your payments could go up fast.
Any extra perks or rewards usually go back to normal, and you lose the low-interest advantage.
Try to pay off your balance before the intro period ends. If not, you could end up paying more in interest and fees than you planned.
For more on risks, see balance transfer pros and cons.
What Are the Best Alternatives to Balance Transfer Cards, and When Should You Choose Something Else?
If you’re looking for ways to manage debt or lower interest, balance transfer credit cards aren’t your only option. Depending on your situation—maybe you can’t pay off the balance during a promo period, or you want more flexible repayment—other solutions might work better.
Alternatives to Balance Transfer Cards
Personal loans can let you consolidate debt with fixed monthly payments. They usually come with lower interest rates than most credit cards.
You get a clear payoff date, which makes budgeting a bit easier.
Debt consolidation services combine your debts into one payment. Sometimes, they can negotiate lower interest or fees on your behalf.
These services might even offer a bit of counseling or coaching if you need it.
Home equity loans or lines of credit use your house as collateral. These usually mean lower interest rates, but you risk losing your home if you can’t pay.
Every option comes with its own fees, terms, and risks. Compare costs, payment schedules, and how fast you need to pay everything off before making a choice.
When a Balance Transfer May Not Be the Best Option
If you can’t pay off your transferred balance before the 0% APR period ends, you could get hit with higher interest later.
Balance transfer cards often charge a fee—usually 3% to 5% of what you move over. Make sure the interest you save is worth more than that fee.
Missing or making late payments can end the promotional APR early. Suddenly, you’re paying interest again.
Planning to use the card for new purchases? Double-check if those get 0% APR, or if interest starts right away. That can sneak up on you.
For more details, you can check out best balance transfer credit cards reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can save money by picking a card with a long 0% interest period and low fees. Some cards throw in rewards or perks, but others just focus on balance transfers. Your credit score and how you spend matter, too.
What features should I look for in a balance transfer credit card?
Look for a long 0% intro APR period on balance transfers. That’ll help cut your interest costs.
Check for a balance transfer fee, usually 3% to 5%. Lower is better, obviously.
Rewards and perks are nice, but low interest and fees should come first.
Are there balance transfer credit cards that offer a 0% interest period for over 21 months?
Yep, some cards go up to 21 months or even a bit longer with 0% APR on balance transfers.
For instance, the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card gives you up to 21 months of 0% interest on both transfers and purchases.
Can I find balance transfer credit cards with no transfer fees?
Most cards charge a fee—typically around 3% to 5%.
It’s rare to find zero transfer fees, but some cards might waive them during special promos.
How do balance transfer offers from major companies like Discover and Capital One compare?
Discover it® Cash Back gives you 18 months of 0% APR on balance transfers, plus some cash back rewards.
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card offers 0% APR for 15 months on both transfers and purchases, but you’ll pay a balance transfer fee.
Each card balances intro APR length and rewards a bit differently, depending on what you need.
What are the best balance transfer credit cards for someone with fair credit?
If your credit’s just fair, you won’t have as many choices, but a few credit unions and banks still offer decent rates.
Cards for lower credit scores usually come with higher interest and shorter 0% APR periods.
Military members might want to check out the Navy Federal Credit Union® Platinum Credit Card. It offers a low intro APR.
Will a balance transfer hurt my credit score?
A balance transfer might cause a small dip in your credit score at first. That’s mostly because opening a new card and moving debt around changes your credit utilization and adds a new account.
Sometimes, this drop is short-lived. If you use the transfer to actually pay down what you owe, your score could bounce back and even improve.
The real trick? Keep an eye on both your new and old accounts. Responsible management makes a difference.
