Browse the Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards

The Pros and Cons of Transferring a Credit Card Balance

The main reason to apply for a balance transfer card is because it can make the process of paying off your debt a little easier. When carrying debt across several cards, it can be difficult to know which balance to tackle first, leaving you feeling overwhelmed on all sides. With all of your debt compiled onto one card instead, you can focus your energy in one direction and possibly feel more empowered to tackle your payments.

This approach to debt management may also help you save money in the long run and reduce your risk of defaulting. Rather than juggling multiple cards with variable APRs and fees, you’ll have just one (hopefully low) APR to worry about. That’s where 0% APR $0 balance transfer credit cards come into play.

However, debt consolidation using a balance transfer card isn’t always the most lucrative option. For instance, it’s not as effective if you have student loans and other types of debt as well. It’s also important to make sure you have a payment strategy in place and stick to it. Otherwise, you may cancel out any benefits from transferring your balances in the first place.

Better credit scores also mean longer intro APR periods on things like purchases and balance transfers. Some cards may offer excellent credit score 0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases, for example.

Keep in mind, however, that transfers must be completed within a set window and do not include fees. Balance transfer fees typically range around $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

How to Spot the Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards

As with all credit cards, some balance transfer credit cards are better than others. The best one for you will also depend on your own financial circumstances. For that reason, you’ll want to look out for a few features in particular to make sure you get the most out of your new card while you pay off the balance.

No Credit Card Balance Transfer Fee

It’s not often that you find a balance transfer credit card with no fee for balance transfers, which is why it’s considered a standout feature. Some cards waive the fee for the first few months, while others skip it completely. This can save you hundreds of dollars on each transfer, depending on the size. Most credit cards charge at least $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, if not more.

Low Regular Interest

The main point in applying for a balance transfer credit card is to get a lower rate than you currently have. That way, you can minimize your interest accrual over time while you pay off your balance.

APRs for low interest credit cards can vary widely depending on your creditworthiness and the size of the issuer. For instance, the best low interest balance transfer card for fair credit at a credit union will look very different than what big banks may offer for the same credit score. You’ll want to make sure you qualify for reasonable rates on whichever card you choose to apply for, as this will affect how beneficial the card is for you.

Long Introductory Period

In order to avoid paying interest on the balance, you’ll want to look for 0% interest balance transfer credit cards. The longer the introductory period, the more time you’ll have to pay off the debt without accruing more interest.

Some of the best options offer 0% APR for anywhere from 12 to 21 months. It’s also important to note any limitations to the introductory period. Specifically, many cards only offer 0% interest for transfers made in the first 60 days from account opening.

Some quality balance transfer credit cards also provide 0% on balance transfers and 0% on purchases for 12 months or more. These cards make financing larger purchases easy and straightforward, as cardholders pay down the balance over 12 months, rather than right away.

High Credit Limit

You’ll want to pay attention to the credit limit available with the card, because you won’t be able to move all of your debt over if it exceeds this amount. This can be tricky to navigate, especially if you have less-than-stellar credit.

While not technically a balance transfer card, the Upgrade Card can be a great option for this situation. This credit line can offer lower rates and higher limits that you would find with most traditional credit card offers. Rather than transferring a balance to the card, you transfer the necessary funds from the credit line to your bank account to pay off your credit cards. The best part is, you can skip balance transfer fees altogether and even pay off other types of debt as well.

Balance Transfer FAQs

Balance transfers can seem confusing – but they don’t have to be. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about balance transfers and balance transfer credit cards: