the top strategies for using credit cards with balance transfer deals : credit card offering a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for 15–21 months, ideally with low or no transfer fees. Top cards like the Citi Simplicity® and Wells Fargo Reflect® help you consolidate high-interest debt and avoid paying interest — giving you time to pay it off without extra cost.
Key strategies include:
- Pick cards with long 0% APR offers (15–21 months)
- Avoid balance transfer fees when possible
- Pay off the balance before the promo ends
- Don’t use the card for new purchases
- Make at least minimum payments on time
Balance transfer deals are most effective when you transfer high-interest debt early, stay disciplined with repayment, and use the promotional period wisely. These offers can save you hundreds—or even thousands—in interest if used correctly.
Using credit cards with balance transfer deals is one of the smartest ways to pay off debt faster and save on interest . When you apply the right strategies — like choosing a long 0% APR offer, transferring balances early, and avoiding late payments — you can take full advantage of the savings.
Honestly, if you’re carrying credit card debt into 2025, balance transfer cards can be a real game changer. They let you shift your existing debt to a new card with a low or 0% intro interest rate, at least for a while.
That move can seriously cut down what you pay in interest. It makes paying off your balance feel actually possible, not just wishful thinking.
But not all balance transfer deals are built the same. Some give you a longer no-interest window, others keep transfer fees low.
Choosing the right card really depends on how much debt you’ve got, how fast you want to pay it down, and what fees you’re willing to stomach. It’s worth looking closely at the details to squeeze the most value out of your transfer.
Don’t forget about credit score requirements or perks and rewards. If you match your card to your financial situation, you’ll manage your debt smarter and dodge extra interest.
Key Takeways
- Balance transfer cards offer low or zero interest for a limited time to reduce debt costs.
- Fees and introductory terms vary, so compare carefully before choosing a card.
- Approval depends on your credit, and rewards may add extra value to some cards.
What Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card?
A balance transfer credit card lets you move your credit card debt to a new card. The main goal is to shrink the interest you pay and buy yourself more time to pay off what you owe.
Most of these cards have a low or 0% intro APR on transferred balances for a set period. If you know how balance transfers work, what debt you can move, and whether you’re a good fit, you’ll make way better choices.
How Balance Transfers Work
When you transfer a balance, you move debt from one card to another, usually with a much lower rate. The new card might offer 0% APR for 12 to 21 months—no interest on the transferred amount during that time.
There’s almost always a transfer fee, typically 3% to 5% of the amount. That can sting, but the interest savings may outweigh it.
You need to pay at least the minimum each month, or you’ll lose that sweet intro APR. When the intro period ends, the regular rate kicks in.
Look for cards with long 0% APR windows and low fees to save the most. Learn more here.
Types of Transferable Debt
Most balance transfer cards let you move credit card debt from one card to another. That includes unpaid balances on your current cards.
Some cards allow transfers from personal loans or retail cards, but not all do. You can’t move mortgages, auto loans, or student loans with these cards.
Some issuers even restrict which accounts you can transfer from. Always check the fine print to see what’s allowed.
If your goal is saving on interest, target high-interest credit card balances for the best results.
Who Should Consider Balance Transfers
If you’re stuck with high-interest credit card debt and can’t pay it off quickly, a balance transfer card could help. It works best if you can pay down the transferred balance during the 0% APR period.
You’ll need a plan to clear the debt before the promo ends. If you keep adding new debt or miss payments, you’ll lose the benefits fast.
Most of the best deals go to those with good credit scores, usually above 700. If you want to cut interest and pay your debt off faster, a balance transfer card is worth a look. See options here.
Top Credit Cards With Balance Transfer Deals in 2025
If you’re looking to pay less interest on your debt, balance transfer cards can really help. Some offer long 0% APR periods, others skip transfer fees, and a few even toss in rewards.
The best card for you depends on your credit and what you want out of the deal.
Best for Long 0% Intro APR Period
If you need time to pay off your balance, focus on cards with the longest 0% intro APR. The Wells Fargo Reflect Card is tough to beat here, with up to 21 months of no interest on balance transfers if you qualify.
That’s nearly two years to chip away at your debt without new interest piling up. Other cards, like Citi Simplicity or Citi Diamond Preferred, offer 0% for 18 months or more.
Don’t forget to check transfer fees—most cards still charge 3% to 5% of what you move.
Best With No Balance Transfer Fee
If you hate fees (who doesn’t?), look for cards that waive them for a while. The Chase Slate Edge is a strong pick—it often skips the balance transfer fee for the first 60 days after you open your account.
That can save you a bundle if you’re moving a big balance. Most other cards will hit you with a 3% to 5% fee, so a no-fee promo is a real win.
But watch out: no-fee cards sometimes have shorter 0% APR periods. Make sure the fee savings are worth it for your timeline.
Best for Rewards and Cash Back
Want to earn rewards while you pay down debt? A few cards let you do both.
The Citi Double Cash Card gives you 2% cash back—1% when you buy, 1% when you pay. Chase Freedom Unlimited is another solid choice, with 1.5% cash back on everything.
Both allow balance transfers, but their 0% APR periods are usually a bit shorter, around 15 months. These cards work well if you want to chip away at debt but still earn on your everyday spending.
Best for Good to Excellent Credit
Most top balance transfer cards want to see good to excellent credit, usually 700 and up. Cards like Citi Diamond Preferred and those from American Express tend to offer the longest 0% APR deals and the lowest fees to folks with strong credit.
If your score’s in good shape, you’ll get better offers and more perks. Improving your credit before you apply can pay off big.
For more details, check out the best balance transfer credit cards.
Understanding Introductory APR and Ongoing Interest Rates
When you pick up a balance transfer card, you usually get a special intro APR—sometimes 0%—for a set time. After that, the card switches to a regular APR, which can be a lot higher.
Knowing how these rates work helps you plan and avoid nasty surprises.
Introductory APR Period Explained
The intro APR period usually lasts from 6 to 21 months after you open the card. During this window, you might pay 0% interest on your transferred balance.
That means you get a break from interest while you tackle your debt head-on. The clock starts ticking as soon as your transfer posts to the new card.
You need to make payments on time, or the intro APR could disappear early. Messing up a payment can end the deal fast.
0% Intro APR vs. Variable APR
A 0% intro APR means you don’t pay interest on your balance during the promo period. It’s a limited-time offer to help you pay off debt faster.
Once the intro period ends, your card’s APR jumps to a variable rate. This rate can go up or down with the market, so it’s not set in stone.
Check if the 0% APR covers just balance transfers or also new purchases. Some cards split these up, so be sure to read the details.
After the Intro Period: Standard APRs
When the intro APR ends, your card applies its standard or ongoing APR to any remaining balance. This rate can range from 15% to 25% or even higher, depending on your credit and the card.
If you haven’t paid off your balance by then, interest starts piling up at the new rate. Same goes for new purchases unless your card says otherwise.
Missing payments could trigger a penalty APR, which is usually even higher. That penalty rate can stick around for months.
Knowing these differences helps you use balance transfer offers wisely.
What should I know before applying for a balance transfer credit card?
Before you dive in, you should know that your credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio all matter a lot. Lenders want to see you can handle the new card and pay it back. If you’ve got good credit and steady income, your odds look pretty solid.
Credit Score Considerations
Your credit score plays a huge role when you apply for a balance transfer card. Most of these cards want to see a FICO score of 670 or better.
A higher score can mean better approval odds and those sweet 0% APR intro rates. Lenders also peek at your credit utilization ratio—that’s how much of your available credit you’re using.
If you keep that ratio under 30%, it shows you’re managing credit well. Go higher, and it could hurt your score or make lenders nervous.
Some issuers let you check pre-approval offers with a soft credit check. That won’t ding your score but gives you a sense of your chances.
Income and Debt-to-Income Ratio
Lenders check your income to make sure you can handle more credit. They want to see you have enough to cover your current debts and the new card.
Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio shows how much of your income goes to monthly debt payments. A lower DTI means you’ve got more wiggle room for new debt.
Most lenders like to see a DTI under 40%. When you apply, be honest about your income—some issuers might ask for proof.
If your DTI is high, getting the best balance transfer offers can get tricky.
Credit Union Membership Benefits
Credit unions sometimes make it easier to get approved for balance transfer cards. They tend to be more flexible than big banks.
They might look at your whole relationship with them, not just your credit score. Credit unions also often offer lower rates and fees.
If your score is borderline, being a member could help. Some even give financial advice to help you manage debt.
To join, you’ll need to meet certain criteria—maybe you live in a specific area or work for a partner employer. If you qualify, applying through a credit union could be a smart move. For more details, check out balance transfer credit card pre-approval information.
Major Credit Card Issuers and Their Balance Transfer Policies
Choosing a balance transfer card? Each issuer handles fees, intro APR periods, and credit requirements a bit differently.
Some cards give long 0% APR periods, but transfer fees and credit score needs can vary. A few even toss in rewards, while others just focus on saving you interest.
Unique Policies by Issuer
Every credit card company has its own rules. Citi, for example, often gives some of the longest 0% intro APR periods—sometimes up to 21 months—but usually charges a 3%-5% transfer fee.
Wells Fargo’s Reflect card offers 18 months at 0% APR and a 3% fee, plus no annual fee. Discover stands out by giving 0% intro APR on both balance transfers and purchases for up to 15 months, and they skip late fees or foreign transaction fees.
Most issuers want to see your credit score above 690 for the best deals.
American Express vs. Chase
American Express has balance transfer cards with intro APRs up to 21 months. Some even skip transfer fees, but you’ll need excellent credit—think 720 or higher.
Amex cards may include rewards like Membership Rewards points for travel or gifts. Chase cards usually offer 12 to 21 months of intro APR and charge 3%-5% transfer fees.
Their cards often come with cash back and signup bonuses, which help if you pay off balances quickly. Chase tends to want higher credit scores, too.
If you’ve got strong credit and like rewards, Chase is a solid pick. Prefer longer intro periods and points? Amex might be better.
Credit Card Issuers Restrictions
Balance transfers come with some rules. Most issuers let you make multiple transfers but cap the total—usually less than your full credit line.
You can’t transfer balances between cards of the same brand or between authorized user accounts. Transfer fees usually run 3% to 5%, but sometimes you’ll find promos with lower or waived fees.
Credit unions like Navy Federal might have lower score requirements and fees, but you need to be a member. If you don’t pay off the transferred balance before the intro APR ends, you’ll get hit with interest—sometimes retroactively.
Always check your card’s terms for when the intro period ends and any penalties.
Comparing Rewards and Perks
When you pick a balance transfer card, don’t just look at the intro APR. Rewards and perks can matter, too.
Some cards give cash back, others offer flexible points, and a few throw in unique benefits that might actually save you some cash.
Cash Back Rewards Programs
A lot of balance transfer cards give you cash back on regular purchases. Usually, it’s a flat rate, like 1% everywhere.
Some cards offer bonus cash back in certain categories, like gas or groceries—maybe 2% on gas, 1% on the rest. These bonuses often have quarterly limits, so keep an eye on your spending.
Just remember, balance transfers don’t earn cash back. Make sure the rewards fit your spending habits. If you hate fees, look for cards with no annual fee.
Reward Dollars and Redemption
Some cards use points or flexible reward dollars instead of plain old cash back. Sometimes, these points are worth more if you redeem them for travel or gift cards.
You might be able to cash out in small increments, so you don’t have to wait forever to use your rewards. Watch for bonus offers, too—spend a certain amount early on and you could snag a few hundred bucks’ worth of points.
Other Benefits and Offers
Balance transfer cards often come with perks like free credit score access. Handy for tracking your financial health.
Some cards give you access to ticket presales for concerts or sports. Others toss in travel perks, like hotel or car rental discounts.
Always check the fees. Transfer fees can eat into your savings, so try to keep them low while getting perks you’ll actually use.
For more on cards with balance transfer deals and rewards, see best balance transfer credit cards july 2025.
Steps for a Successful Balance Transfer
Want to pull off a balance transfer that actually helps? You’ll need to pick the right card, know the process, and avoid some common pitfalls.
How to Initiate a Balance Transfer
First, pick a card with a low or 0% intro APR. Once you’re approved, request the transfer online or by calling your issuer.
You’ll need to give them the account number and the amount you want to move. Don’t forget about the balance transfer fee—usually 3% to 5%.
Make sure the transfer amount plus the fee fits within your new credit limit. Sometimes it’s less than you expect.
Timelines and Processing
Balance transfers aren’t instant. They can take anywhere from 5 days to 6 weeks, depending on the banks.
You usually can’t transfer debt between cards from the same bank. If you try workarounds like balance transfer checks, expect delays.
Keep paying your old card until the transfer is done. Missing a payment could mean late fees and a hit to your credit score.
There’s also a deadline to request the transfer—each issuer sets their own window.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t try to transfer balances between cards from the same issuer—it rarely works and could get denied.
Don’t ignore the transfer fee when you do the math. Sometimes, the fee wipes out any interest savings.
Missing payments on your new card? That can cancel your intro APR, making your debt pricier. Also, check your new credit limit before applying—if it’s too low, you might end up with leftover debt at a high rate.
Strategies for Paying Off Credit Card Debt
Paying down credit card debt isn’t easy, but with a plan and the right tools, you can make real progress.
Debt Consolidation Approaches
Debt consolidation means rolling multiple card balances into one payment. It can make things simpler and might lower your interest.
A popular way is to use a balance transfer card with a 0% or low intro rate. That way, more of your payment hits the principal.
Check the transfer fees and how long the intro period lasts. Miss the deadline, and your rate could shoot up.
Personal loans work, too—they usually have fixed rates and set payments.
Building a Repayment Plan
List all your credit card debts, their balances, and rates. Pick a method—the snowball (smallest balance first) or avalanche (highest rate first).
Set a budget to cover minimums plus extra. Use any interest you save from a balance transfer to pay more toward your debt.
Track your progress. It’s motivating and helps you tweak your plan if needed.
Maintaining a Healthy Credit Score
Keep your credit utilization low—ideally under 30%. After a transfer, don’t rack up new debt on other cards.
Always pay on time to avoid late fees and dings on your credit. Check your credit report for mistakes.
A good score means better offers down the road, including future balance transfers.
Alternatives to Balance Transfer Credit Cards
Not feeling a balance transfer card? There are other ways to tackle your debt.
Personal Loans
A personal loan gives you a lump sum to pay off your cards. You pay it back in fixed monthly amounts.
Interest rates are often lower than credit cards. That can save you money and make budgeting easier.
Approval depends on your credit and income. Watch out for fees—like origination or late fees.
Compare terms before you decide.
Debt Management Plans
Credit counseling agencies can set up debt management plans (DMPs). They work with your creditors to lower rates and set up one monthly payment.
You pay the agency, and they pay your creditors. It simplifies things and can help you dodge late fees.
DMPs usually last three to five years. You might have to close your credit cards while you’re in the plan.
Other Financial Solutions
You could try debt consolidation loans to roll debts into one payment. Sometimes that means a lower rate or payment.
If you’re struggling, hardship programs or settlement options might help. These usually mean negotiating a lower payoff, but your credit score could take a hit.
Each option has pros and cons. Take a close look at the costs and how it’ll affect you before deciding.
For more on alternatives, check Experian’s guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should look at interest rates, fees, and how long the 0% APR period lasts. Credit limits, rewards, and eligibility based on your credit score also matter. Transferring balances can change your credit score and might help consolidate debt.
What factors should be considered when choosing a balance transfer credit card?
Focus on the length of the 0% APR period for balance transfers and purchases. Check if there is a balance transfer fee, usually around 3%.
Compare the ongoing APR after the intro period ends. Look at your credit score to see which cards you can qualify for.
Consider any extra perks like cash back or rewards if those benefits fit your spending habits.
How long do 0% APR balance transfer offers typically last?
Most offers last between 12 and 21 months. Some cards, like the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card, offer up to 21 months.
Shorter periods usually run from 6 to 12 months on other cards. Plan to pay off or reduce your transferred balance before the offer ends to avoid higher interest charges.
Are there any balance transfer credit cards that come with no fees?
No-fee balance transfer cards are rare but do exist. Many cards charge around 2% to 3% of the transferred amount as a fee.
Read the terms carefully before applying to find if a card offers no balance transfer fees or if the fee is waived for a limited time.
How can a balance transfer impact your credit score?
A balance transfer can help your credit score by lowering your credit utilization ratio. But here’s the catch—it usually triggers a hard inquiry, so you might notice a small, temporary dip.
If you open a new card and the limit isn’t much higher than your current debt, your score might not budge much. Make sure to stay on top of payments, because missing one can hurt your credit more than you’d think.
What are the best balance transfer credit cards for fair credit?
Cards for fair credit often come with shorter 0% APR periods. After that, the fees or interest rates tend to jump.
Some of these cards throw in a few perks, but don’t expect anything too flashy. It’s worth looking at credit unions or smaller issuers—they sometimes have better options for folks with fair credit.
The Navy Federal Credit Union® Platinum Credit Card, for example, offers low intro APRs if you qualify.
Is it beneficial to transfer balances from multiple cards onto a single card?
Honestly, it can be. If you move your balances to a card with a lower APR, you might save on interest and make your payments simpler.
Combining debts onto one card helps you keep track of what you owe. But you’ve gotta keep an eye on your total credit limit.
If your new card’s limit doesn’t cover all your debt, you’ll only transfer part of it. Don’t forget about transfer fees—they can sneak up on you and eat into your savings.
If you want more details, check out Chase’s balance transfer FAQs.
