If you’re dealing with credit card debt, finding the best balance transfer offers for 2025 could save you real money. The right card lets you move your balance to a 0% APR deal, giving you time to pay off what you owe without racking up interest.
These offers often give you a long period with no interest, which means you can actually get ahead on your debt instead of just treading water. But you’ve got to pick carefully—look for cards with the longest 0% APR and the lowest fees.
Balance transfer cards aren’t all the same. Some give you a longer interest-free window, while others might throw in rewards or cash back.
If you pay attention to the details—the intro period, the fees, and the rewards—you’ll have a better shot at picking a card that fits your life.
A smart balance transfer can help your credit and make paying off debt less of a nightmare. Still, you’ve got to watch out for fees and what happens when the intro rate ends.
Key Takeaways
- Long 0% APR periods and low fees are what you want.
- Compare rewards and transfer costs before you decide.
- Use your card with a plan—don’t get caught by high interest after the intro period.
What Are Balance Transfer Offers?
A balance transfer lets you move debt from one credit card to another, usually at a much lower or even 0% interest rate for a while. These deals help you save on interest and make it a bit easier to pay down debt.
You need to know how balance transfers work, how they’re different from regular purchases, and what kind of perks they really offer.
How Balance Transfers Work
When you transfer a balance, you move what you owe from one card to a new one with a special promo rate. Most balance transfer cards offer 0% APR for 12 to 24 months.
That means you can pay off your debt without any interest for a chunk of time.
There’s usually a fee—typically 3% to 5% of what you transfer. Once the promo period ends, the interest rate jumps back up.
You’ve got to make payments on time, though, or you could lose that 0% deal.
Difference Between Balance Transfers and Purchases
Balance transfers and purchases come with different rules. When you buy something, you might start paying interest right away unless you pay the full bill every month.
With a balance transfer, you get that special low or no-interest rate for a set period.
Balance transfers usually come with a fee, but regular purchases don’t. And don’t assume your 0% APR for transfers covers new purchases—it usually doesn’t.
Advantages of Using a Balance Transfer Card
A balance transfer card can cut down the interest you pay on high-interest debt. That could save you a nice chunk of change and help you pay off what you owe faster.
You can also roll multiple debts into one card, making payments easier to manage.
Some cards toss in rewards or bonuses, but the real draw is that long 0% APR intro period. That’s your window to focus on crushing your debt.
For more options, check out the best balance transfer credit cards of July 2025.
Key Features of the Best Balance Transfer Offers
When you’re picking a balance transfer offer, you need to look at how long the 0% APR lasts, the transfer fees, and what happens after the intro period.
These are the big factors that decide how much you’ll save—and how fast you can pay off your debt.
0% Intro APR Periods
The 0% intro APR is the time you don’t pay interest on your transferred balance. Most cards give you between 12 and 24 months.
Longer intro periods mean more time to knock down your debt without interest piling up.
Some cards offer shorter periods but lower fees or extra perks. Always check the exact timeline so you can plan your payments.
That 0% rate usually only applies to balance transfers. Purchases might not get the same deal, so watch out.
Balance Transfer Fees
Most cards charge a fee when you move a balance—usually 3% to 5%. If you transfer $1,000, you’ll pay $30 to $50 up front.
A few cards have lower or no transfer fees, which is a big win if you’re moving a lot of debt.
Add up the fee and compare it to how much interest you’ll save. Sometimes, a small fee is worth it for a long 0% period.
Remember, you pay the fee right away, even if you’re not paying interest.
Variable APR After Intro Offers
Once the intro period ends, your rate jumps to a variable APR. This rate depends on the market and your credit score.
Most cards land somewhere between 15% and 25%. If you still have a balance when the 0% APR ends, you’ll start paying interest at this higher rate.
It’s smart to know the post-intro APR ahead of time. Try to pay off your balance before the rate goes up.
If you want more info, check out the best balance transfer credit cards of 2025.
Top Balance Transfer Credit Cards for 2025
Look for a card with a long 0% APR period, low or no transfer fees, and rewards that actually work for you. Some cards focus on giving you time to pay off debt, while others throw in cash back or bonuses.
Pick the card that matches how fast you want to pay off your balance and what extras you care about.
Wells Fargo Reflect Card
The Wells Fargo Reflect Card gives you up to 21 months of 0% APR on balance transfers and new purchases. That’s one of the longest deals out there.
You’ll pay a 3% transfer fee in the first 120 days, then it jumps to 5%. No rewards, but the long interest-free period is the main draw.
If you want time to pay down debt, it’s a solid pick.
Citi Diamond Preferred Card
The Citi Diamond Preferred Card usually offers 18 months of 0% APR on balance transfers. That’s plenty of breathing room.
You’ll pay a transfer fee of $5 or 3%, whichever is higher. No rewards here either, but the low-cost transfer and long intro period make it a good pick for debt payoff.
Citi Double Cash Card
The Citi Double Cash Card mixes rewards and balance transfer perks. You get 18 months of 0% APR on balance transfers and new purchases.
You also earn 2% cash back—1% when you buy, 1% when you pay. Not bad if you want rewards while tackling debt.
Transfer fee is 3%. It’s a nice balance of rewards and a good intro APR.
Blue Cash Preferred Card
The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express stands out for its rewards. You might get 0% APR on balance transfers for 12 to 15 months.
You’ll earn 6% back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year), 6% on select streaming, 3% on transit, and 1% elsewhere.
Transfer fee is usually 3%. If you spend a lot on groceries, this card can help you earn while you pay down debt.
For more details, see the best balance transfer credit cards for 2025.
Comparing Balance Transfer Card Offers
When you’re comparing balance transfer cards, focus on the 0% APR period, transfer fees, and any extra perks or costs. These details make a big difference in how much you save.
Length of Introductory APR
The 0% APR period is how long you won’t pay interest on your transferred balance. It usually ranges from 12 to 24 months.
Longer is better if you’ve got a bigger balance. Aim for at least 15 months if you want to make a real dent in your debt.
Remember, once this period ends, the regular APR kicks in. Try to pay off your balance before then.
Balance Transfer Fees Comparison
Transfer fees are usually 3% to 5% of what you move. For example, a $5,000 transfer at 3% costs $150.
Some cards waive the fee if you transfer within 60 days. That’s a big help if you’ve got a lot to move.
If the fee isn’t waived, weigh it against the interest you’d save. Sometimes a small fee is still worth it.
Here’s a quick look:
| Fee Type | Typical Range | Possible Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Transfer Fee | 3% to 5% | May add upfront cost |
| No Fee Intro Offer | 0% | Can save hundreds on large transfers |
Annual Fees and Rewards
Most balance transfer cards don’t charge an annual fee, which is great if you’re trying to pay down debt.
Some cards do have a fee, but offer rewards like cash back or points. If you spend enough, those rewards can make up for the fee.
Check if the rewards match your spending. For example, 1.5% cash back helps you earn while you pay down debt.
If you want rewards, make sure they’re worth more than any fees. Sometimes, a no-fee card is the better move if you just want to pay off your balance.
For more offers, see this best balance transfer cards list.
Using Balance Transfer Cards for Purchases
When you use a balance transfer card, the terms for purchases might not match the terms for your transferred balance. If you’re not careful, new purchases could rack up interest even if your transfer sits at 0%.
Know the rules for purchases during your 0% APR window, and don’t assume everything gets the same sweet deal. It’s worth double-checking before you swipe.
Should You Make Retail Purchases During a 0% APR Balance Transfer Offer?
Honestly, it depends on the card. Most balance transfer cards give you a 0% introductory APR on transferred balances, but not always on new retail purchases. So, if you’re thinking about shopping with that same card, double-check if the 0% APR covers new buys and for how long.
Many cards start charging interest on new purchases right away or after a shorter intro period than the balance transfer offer. If your card doesn’t include a 0% APR on new purchases, anything you buy racks up interest immediately—even if your transferred balance is still interest-free.
If you want to avoid paying extra, keep new purchases low or use another card for shopping. Or just pay off new purchases in full each month to dodge interest.
New purchases usually have a separate grace period. If you miss payments or carry a balance on new stuff, your APR could jump, and you might lose your 0% period early.
Read your card’s terms closely to see how it handles new retail purchases during a balance transfer offer. That’s the only way to plan payments and keep debt under control. Want a deeper dive? Check out Forbes Advisor’s best balance transfer credit cards.
What Costs Should You Watch For With Balance Transfers?
When you move a balance to a new credit card, a few costs can sneak up on you. There are transfer fees, possible annual charges, and the risk of a high interest rate after the intro offer ends.
What’s the Deal With Balance Transfer Fees?
Balance transfer fees are what you pay to shift debt from one card to another. Usually, it’s 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. So, moving $5,000 with a 3% fee means you shell out $150 upfront.
A few cards charge a flat fee like $5 or $10, but honestly, that’s rare. Most tack the fee on as soon as you start the transfer.
Check the fee before you apply—if you don’t save more in interest than you pay in fees, what’s the point? You’ll find the details in the card’s terms or on their site.
What Happens to Interest Rates After the Intro Period?
Most balance transfer cards offer a 0% intro APR for somewhere between 12 and 24 months. After that, your rate jumps to the card’s regular variable APR, which moves with the market.
If you don’t pay off your balance before the intro period ends, interest starts piling up on whatever’s left. The new rate can be steep—sometimes 15% to 25% or even higher.
Know the post-intro APR before you transfer anything. Try to pay off your balance while you’re still in the zero-interest window.
How Do Annual Fees Affect Your Savings?
Some balance transfer cards charge an annual fee—anywhere from $0 up to $100 or more.
If your card has a fee, add it to your calculations. A high annual fee can eat into your interest savings fast.
A few cards waive the fee for the first year, so see if you qualify for that. If you plan to keep the card for a while, decide if the perks or savings are worth the ongoing cost.
Should You Pick Cash Back or Balance Transfer Rewards?
Picking a credit card means weighing cash back rewards against balance transfer perks. It really comes down to how you plan to use the card: Are you chasing rewards, or just trying to ditch debt?
Can You Earn Cash Back With Balance Transfer Cards?
Most balance transfer cards focus on 0% interest for a set period to help you knock out debt. But you won’t earn cash back on the amount you transfer—only on new purchases.
Some cards, like the Blue Cash Everyday Card, offer solid cash back on groceries and gas. Before you pick, check the rewards structure, especially if you want to make new purchases during the balance transfer period.
Cash back programs aren’t all the same. Some give a flat rate, others focus on categories. If you want to juggle rewards and debt, look for a card with a long 0% intro APR and decent cash back on purchases.
How Do You Match the Card to Your Needs?
If you’re serious about paying down debt, look for cards with long 0% balance transfer offers and low fees. Don’t sweat rewards too much—they don’t apply to transferred balances.
But if you plan to pay off your balance quickly or use the card for new purchases, a cash back card with transfer perks could work.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Debt focus: Go for long 0% balance transfer offers and low fees.
- Rewards focus: Pick high cash back rates in your favorite spending categories.
- Hybrid: Get a card with both 0% intro APR and solid cash back on purchases.
It’s all about matching your goals to the card’s features. For detailed picks, check out balance transfer credit cards and their rewards.
How Do You Maximize Savings With Balance Transfer Offers?
Using a balance transfer card the right way can cut interest and help you pay off debt faster. But you’ve got to manage payments and pick the right balances to move.
What’s the Smartest Way to Pay Down Debt?
To get the most out of your 0% interest period, focus on paying off your transferred balance before the clock runs out. Make a budget that fits those payments so you’re not left with debt that’ll rack up regular interest.
Try not to make new purchases on your balance transfer card unless they also have a 0% intro APR. That way, you avoid piling on new debt. And don’t forget the fees—usually 3% to 5% of the amount transferred—so transfer enough to make the savings worth it.
List out your payments during the intro period and prioritize the ones that’ll cut your balance fastest. Online calculators can help you map out your debt payoff timeline.
Should You Transfer High-Interest Balances First?
Transferring balances with high interest rates saves you the most money. Look for cards with the longest 0% intro APR—18 to 21 months is ideal.
Cards with low or no transfer fees help you save even more. Watch out for balance transfer limits, though—they might cap how much debt you can move.
If your current card’s APR is sky-high—like 20% or more—moving that debt to a 0% APR card lets you avoid interest while you pay down the principal. That can help you get out of debt faster and maybe even boost your credit score.
Want more options? Check out the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card or Discover it® Cash Back for long 0% APR periods. You’ll find more info in reviews of the best balance transfer credit cards of 2025.
Can Balance Transfer Offers Help With Mortgages?
Balance transfer credit cards might help with some home-related expenses, but honestly, they’re not a great fit for mortgages. Knowing when to use these offers—and their limits—can protect your wallet.
When Should You Use Balance Transfers for Home Expenses?
You can use a balance transfer credit card to pay for things like repairs, renovations, or closing costs. These cards often give you 0% APR for a limited time, letting you spread out payments without extra interest.
If you’ve got unexpected bills or want to consolidate high-interest debt, a balance transfer might save you some cash. Just make sure you know how long the promo lasts and what fees you’ll pay.
Don’t use balance transfers for regular mortgage payments. Stick to short-term home costs you can pay off before the 0% APR ends.
What Are the Limits of Using Credit Cards for Mortgage Payments?
Most mortgage lenders won’t take credit cards for monthly payments. Even if they do, using a balance transfer credit card for a mortgage usually costs more because of fees.
Balance transfer cards typically charge a 3% to 5% fee on the amount you move. That can wipe out any interest savings if you use it for a mortgage.
Carrying a big balance on your card can also ding your credit score and increase your debt risk. Use balance transfers for manageable home expenses, not long-term mortgage debt.
For more details, check out the best balance transfer offers here.
How Do You Qualify for the Best Balance Transfer Deals?
Getting the best balance transfer offers means meeting certain credit requirements and applying the right way. Your credit history and how you fill out the application both matter.
What Credit Score Do You Need?
Most top balance transfer cards want a good to excellent credit score—usually 670 or higher. Some ask for 700+.
Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio too. If your debts eat up too much of your income, your chances drop.
They’ll also check your payment history and how long you’ve had credit. Paying bills on time and keeping accounts open helps.
Before applying, check your credit report for errors and pay down existing debt to boost your odds.
What Application Tips Can Help You Get Approved?
Check your credit score before you apply. Don’t apply for a bunch of cards at once—multiple inquiries can hurt your score.
Fill out your application carefully. Even small mistakes like the wrong income or address can cause problems.
Apply for cards that fit your credit range. Cards for excellent credit have the best deals but are tough to get if your score’s low.
If you get denied, wait a few months before trying again. Use that time to pay down balances and make on-time payments.
Some cards let you check pre-qualification status online or by calling customer service. That can help you gauge your chances without a hard inquiry.
For detailed picks, see Forbes Advisor’s best balance transfer cards of 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
When picking a balance transfer card, focus on the length of the 0% APR period, any fees, and rewards. You’ll usually need a good credit score to qualify. Some cards skip transfer fees, but that’s rare. Be aware of the downsides, like fees and higher rates after the intro period.
What features should I look for in a balance transfer credit card?
Find a card with a long 0% intro APR on balance transfers, low or no transfer fees, and a decent ongoing APR after the intro period. Some cards also toss in cash back or bonuses. Check how long the intro period lasts and if there are limits on how much you can transfer.
How do I qualify for a balance transfer card with a 0% introductory rate?
You’ll need good to excellent credit for the best 0% intro APR offers. Lenders look at your credit score, income, and debt. A strong credit profile boosts your approval odds for cards with better terms.
Are there balance transfer cards available with no transfer fees?
Yep, some cards waive transfer fees, but it’s not common. Usually, you’ll pay 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. If you want to avoid extra costs, dig into the terms to find cards with low or no transfer fees.
What are the potential drawbacks of a balance transfer credit card?
You might run into high transfer fees or a steep APR once the 0% period ends. Miss a payment and you could lose your intro APR early. Also, transferring balances can bump up your credit utilization ratio, which might temporarily ding your credit score.
Can I get a balance transfer credit card with a fair credit score?
It’s possible, but options are limited. Cards with 0% intro offers usually want good to excellent credit. If your score’s only fair, expect higher fees, shorter intro periods, or higher ongoing APRs. Look for cards designed for fair credit if you need to.
How long do the introductory rates actually last on balance transfer cards?
Introductory 0% APR periods on balance transfer cards usually stick around for 12 to 21 months. That’s the sweet spot, though you’ll see a few cards with just 6 months, and some rare ones stretching all the way to 21 months.
It really depends on the card and the bank. Always check the fine print before you apply.
For more details on current card offers, you can see best balance transfer credit cards of June 2025.
