Best Balance Transfer (0% APR) Credit Cards
A balance transfer is when you move debt from one credit card to another. The incentive behind this is to shift high-interest debt to a credit card with a lower annual percentage rate. That’s where balance transfer credit cards enter the picture. These credit cards offer a promotional 0% APR period, enabling you to save money and repay your debt faster. Interest-free periods and ongoing APRs vary among credit cards, and each has different other features, like a $0 balance transfer fee, rewards, and others. You have to do the math before deciding which new credit card you will transfer your debt to. Several factors, like your credit score, the debt amount, earnings, preferences, etc., should be taken into account. This article will provide you with a good basis for your decision and help you find the credit card that best matches your financial situation and needs.
By Hanna Volkava
Updated August 04, 2025
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Citi Double Cash
Cash Back No Annual Fee Daily use
Our Rating:
Rewards Rate:
- 2% Cash Back on every purchase with unlimited 1% Cash Back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for purchases.
Regular APR:
18.24% – 28.24%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
Citi Diamond Preferred®
0 APR No Annual Fee
Our Rating:
Regular APR:
17.24% – 27.99%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Excellent (740-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
Citi Rewards+®
Cash Back No Annual Fee
Our Rating:
Rewards Rate:
- 5x Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com through December 31, 2025.
- 2x Points at supermarkets and gas stations (on up to $6,000 in purchases per year, then 1x points).
- 1x Points on all other purchases.
Regular APR:
17.74% – 27.74%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
Citi Simplicity®
0 APR Single mom
Our Rating:
Regular APR:
18.24% – 28.99%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Excellent (740-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
Barclays Bank Delaware AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
Our Rating:
Rewards Rate:
- 2x Miles for every $1 dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases.
- 1x Miles for every $1 dollar spent on all other purchases.
Regular APR:
21.24% – 29.99%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
American Express Blue Cash Preferred
Gas Groceries Streaming services Daily use
Our Rating:
Rewards Rate:
- 6% Cash Back at U.S. Supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
- 6% Cash Back on streaming (select U.S. streaming subscriptions).
- 3% Cash Back on transit. Transit includes taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more.
- 3% Cash Back at U.S. Gas Stations.
- 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
Regular APR:
18.74% – 29.74%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
Chase Freedom Flex℠
Cash Back 0 APR No Annual Fee Daily use
Our Rating:
Rewards Rate:
- 5% Cash Back on up to $1,500 on combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate.
- 5% Cash Back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
- 3% Cash Back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services.
- 3% Cash Back on drugstore purchases.
- 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.
Regular APR:
18.99% – 28.49%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Cash Back Gas 0 APR No Annual Fee Families Shopping Groceries
Our Rating:
Rewards Rate:
- 3% Cash Back on groceries at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
- 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
- 2% Cash Back on gas at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
- 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Regular APR:
18.74% – 29.74%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
Ocean Bank International Platinum Rewards
Our Rating:
Rewards Rate:
- 1x Point per $1 on all qualifying net purchases.
Regular APR:
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
BMO Harris Bank Business Platinum Mastercard®
Our Rating:
Regular APR:
16.49% – 25.49%
Annual Fee:
Credit Score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
0% Intro APR
Low interest
Bonus points
Free Credit Score
No Annual Fee
No foreign transaction fees
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Short Review of Best Credit Cards for Balance Transfer
Citi Double Cash
Citi Diamond Preferred®
Citi Rewards+®
Citi Simplicity®
Barclays Bank Delaware AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
Cards’ description
Citi Double Cash
The Citi Double Cash offers a great 18-month 0% APR period on balance transfers made in the first 4 months. After that, it’s 18.24% – 28.24% Variable, based on your creditworthiness. The balance transfer fee is 3% (minimum $5). That is a card you’ll want to keep even after you take advantage of its zero-interest period because it will also earn you a generous 2% cash back on all purchases (1% cash back when you make a purchase and 1% when you pay for it). However, there is no intro APR on purchases.
Citi Diamond Preferred®
This card has a lengthy 12-month 0% APR period for purchases and a 21-month period for balance transfers (made within 4 months after account opening). There is a balance transfer fee of 3% or $5 (whichever is greater), but no annual fee. The regular APR will be 17.24% – 27.99%. It hardly offers any long-term value after the intro period as it lacks a rewards program.
Citi Rewards+®
You could say that the Rewards+® offers the whole package: a 15-month 0% APR period on balance transfers and purchases (17.74% – 27.74% variable after that), rewards, and a sign-up bonus, all with a no annual fee. Balance transfers have to be made within the first four months to qualify for the intro APR period, and the ARP after will be 17.74% – 27.74%. You’ll earn 2 ThankYou® points for every dollar spent at supermarkets and gas stations (up to the first $6,000 spent) and 1 point for all other purchases. Also, points automatically round up to the nearest 10 points on every purchase.
Citi Simplicity®
The Citi Simplicity® is ideal for the forgetful and those unsure whether they’ll have the money to make all payments on time. That is because this card has no late and penalty fees. Also, no annual fee! The introductory 0% APR period is 12 months for purchases and 21 months for balance transfer. The intro APR offer applies to balance transfers made within 4 months upon opening the account and after the offer ends, it’s a variable 18.24% – 28.99%.
Barclays Bank Delaware AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
This is a travel card that also offers a satisfactory 15-month 0% APR period for balance transfers. After, the APR will be 21.24% – 29.99%, depending on your creditworthiness. You’ll earn 2x miles per dollar spent on American Airlines purchases and 1x miles on all other purchases. Plus, an easy-to-reach welcome bonus. There are two things to keep in mind with this card. First, to benefit from the intro period, you have to make the balance transfer within 45 days from account opening, and there’s also a $99 annual fee.
What is a balance transfer credit card?
A balance transfer credit card allows you to transfer your debt from a high-interest credit card to this one which usually offers a 0% APR for a limited period. It can be a great tool to manage your debt and save money on interest.
How to save money with a credit card balance transfer?
Moving your debt from one credit card to a balance transfer credit card is all about saving money. So, before applying for one you have to carefully think it through. First, consider your debt amount and be realistic about the time you’ll need to pay it all off. If it’s a significantly high amount or you think it’ll take longer to repay it, go for a card that offers a longer period with 0% APR. The US bank Visa® Platinum offers the longest introductory period, 20 billing cycles which is nearly two years (18.74% – 29.74% Variable thereafter).
The average credit card debt in the USA is around $5000. If you pay an 18% APR on that debt, that’s $750 you’ll give for interest. Alternatively, with an average balance transfer credit card that has an 18-month period with 0% APR and if you pay off $250 every month, at the end of the intro period, you’ll have $500 left. Even if you pay a higher APR on those, like 20%, interest will be $100, so it’ll cost you considerably less.
Another important thing to note is the balance transfer fee. It’s a fee charged by the credit card when you make a balance transfer, and it’s a percentage of the balance transfer amount. Generally, it’s 3% (but not less than $5) for most credit cards, so if you transfer a balance of $1000, you’ll pay a $30 fee. If you’re transferring a higher balance amount, this cost can be significant. In that case, you can get a card that doesn’t charge a balance transfer fee, like the Navy Federal Credit Union Platinum.
Pros and cons of a balance transfer credit card
Pros
- Save money on interest – transferring your debt to a card that doesn’t charge interest for a certain period can save you hundreds of dollars. The money you put into your debt will go only toward paying off the principal balance and not toward interest.
- Debt consolidation – it’s more convenient to pay only one credit card balance every month than several of them. It’s also easier to remember and focus on one due date.
- Other favorable features – if your priority is not just a balance transfer, you can apply for a card that also offers rewards, like the Citi Double Cash (cash back).
Cons
- The ongoing APR – after the intro period expires, APRs on balance transfers usually vary from card to card and are within certain limits. For example, the regular APR on the US bank Visa® Platinum is between 18.74% – 29.74%, based on your creditworthiness. If you’re not in good financial health, you can easily get a rate that’s closer to the higher limit of the APR range after the intro period ends.
- It can get costly – factor in the balance transfer fee and the annual fee of the new credit card. Compare the cost of moving your balance to the cost of the interest on your current card.
- Good or excellent credit is needed – the best balance transfer deals require you to have good to excellent credit to get approved.
How to do a balance transfer?
Before doing a balance transfer, you have to get familiar with the credit card’s rules. Especially pay attention to the time limit for transferring your balance to qualify for the introductory period. Although for most cards you’ll have around 4 months to make the transfer, with some you don’t have that much time.
The Bank of America Cash Rewards requires you to apply within 60 days after opening the account and the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® 45 days.
The balance transfer starts with a request that you can usually do online or by talking to a representative from your new credit card company. They’ll need the number of the account on which you carry your debt and the amount you want to transfer.
The process can take from several days to several weeks. So, make sure you keep making at least the minimum payments due on your old credit card until the balance transfer is completed.
Alternatives to a balance transfer
Balance transfer credit cards usually require good to excellent credit, so if those with fair or bad credit get rejected, there are other alternatives to consider. These can be used even by those who get accepted, but their debt is higher than the credit limit approved by the balance transfer card’s company.
Our recommendations, depending on your financial situation, are:
- Borrow from a friend or relative – if your debt is not too big and you know someone who’d be willing (and can afford) to lend you the money, you should ask them.
- Personal loan – another alternative suitable for those with higher debt amounts who’ll take longer to repay the debt. There are no surprises with personal loans – you’ll pay a fixed amount of interest for a fixed period of time. Note that some come with origination and sign-up fees.
- Try renegotiating your regular APR – you can contact your credit card company and ask if they can lower your ARP. If you’re in good standing and have been making your payments regularly, they might say yes.
Additional Options for Balance Transfer Cards with Rewards
If you’re looking for a balance transfer card that’s a keeper after the 0% APR intro period, you should look at those that offer rewards. Besides the cards on our list, another great rewards card is the Wells Fargo Visa Signature® Card. For the first 6 months, you’ll get 5x rewards points on up to $12,500 spent on groceries, gas, and drugstore purchases, and 1x points on all other purchases. The 0% APR period for balance transfers and purchases lasts for 15 months after account opening.
A good option is also the SunTrust Prime Rewards Credit Card, whose intro APR offer is very low, currently a 3.25% variable APR for 3 years. If you make the balance transfer within the first 60 days upon account opening you’ll get the intro APR offer and also you won’t pay a balance transfer fee ($10 or 3% after). The rewards program includes a 1% unlimited cash back on all eligible purchases and a $100 sign-up bonus.
Travel rewards and financing offers
Along with the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®, another attractive travel card with a balance transfer offer is the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard®. It has a 0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers made within 45 days after account opening (21.24% – 29.99% Variable thereafter). The rewards include 5x miles on purchases at flyfrontier.com, 3x miles at restaurants, and 1x miles for everything else, as well as a sign-up bonus. This card has a $89 annual fee.
How to choose a balance transfer credit card?
As most credit cards require excellent credit, you have to be realistic about your options. If you have a less-than-perfect credit score your choice will be limited.
With a good credit score, you’ll qualify for most balance transfer credit cards on the market. So, start analyzing and comparing them to find the one that’s most suitable for your financial situation. The reason for a balance transfer is, of course, paying off debt as cost-efficiently as possible.
First, carefully review your debt and your financial situation. Ask yourself how much time you’ll need to pay it off. If, for example, you can manage to repay it within 15 months, you’ll have more options. While an important factor for those who think they’ll keep paying off their debt after the intro period is over is the ongoing APR.
If you are in a tight situation, and you want to avoid any fees and costs, consider those that don’t charge a balance transfer or annual fees. All cards on our list, except the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®, don’t have annual fees. But only the Navy Federal Credit Union Platinum doesn’t have a balance transfer fee.
Finally, think about other credit card perks that are important to you. For instance, with rewards credit cards you get the best of both worlds – intro APR offers and rewards.
How to apply for a balance transfer credit card?
After you’ve made your research and decided on the credit card you want, the only thing left to do is apply for it. You can apply for a balance transfer credit like for any other credit card. It can be done online or by talking to a representative of the bank that issues the card.
We assume you’ve already read the terms and conditions of the card, and the only thing you don’t know is the available credit limit. You’ll find out about that only after you’ve been approved for the card, so be aware that it might not be as large as the amount of debt you want to transfer.
Also, please note that you cannot transfer your debt to another credit card of the same issuer.
FAQ
What are other credit cards to consider?
Another great balance transfer credit card that didn’t make our list is the HSBC Gold Mastercard® Credit Card.
Will a balance transfer affect my credit score?
At first, applying for a balance transfer credit card will take away some points from your credit score due to the hard inquiry. However, in the long run, it will probably improve your credit score as the additional line of credit will lower your credit utilization ratio, a very important factor when determining a credit score.
How many balance transfers can you make to the same card?
This will depend on the card and the approved credit limit you’ll get. Note that each time you make a balance transfer you’ll have to pay a fee.
Mastering Credit Card Balance Transfers: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you struggling with high-interest credit card debt? Feeling overwhelmed by multiple payments each month? A credit card balance transfer might be the solution you’re looking for. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of balance transfer of credit cards, exploring its pros, cons, and how it works. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how balance transfer works and whether a credit card balance transfer is the right move for your financial situation.
Save up to ₹16,000/year with this credit card
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What is a Credit Card Balance Transfer?
A credit card balance transfer involves moving your outstanding debt from one credit card to another, typically to a card with a lower interest rate or a promotional 0% per annum interest offer. It’s like shifting your debt to a new home that costs you less in interest.
Think of it like this: Imagine you have a ₹50,000 balance on a credit card with an 18% per annum interest. If you qualify for a balance transfer card offering 0% per annum interest for 12 months, you could save ₹9,000 in interest over that period. That’s a significant chunk of change!
Understanding the Pros and Cons of Balance Transfers
Before you jump into a balance transfer, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of a balance transfer. Let’s break them down:
Pros of Credit Card Balance Transfers
- Save on Interest: The primary benefit of a balance transfer is the potential to save on interest. If you qualify for a 0% per annum interest offer, you can pause interest accrual for a set period, typically 12 to 21 months.
- Consolidate Debts: If you have balances on multiple high-interest cards, a balance transfer can help you consolidate those debts into a single, more manageable payment.
- Pay Off Debt Faster: With a lower or 0% interest rate, more of your payment goes toward the principal balance, allowing you to pay off your debt more quickly.
- Improve Credit Score: By lowering your credit utilisation ratio (the amount of credit you’re using compared to your credit limits), a balance transfer can potentially boost your credit score.
Cons of Credit Card Balance Transfers
- Balance Transfer Fees: Most cards charge a balance transfer fee, usually 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. For example, transferring a ₹10,000 balance with a 3% fee would cost you ₹300.
- Temporary Low Per Annum Interest: The low or 0% per annum interest is typically just an introductory offer. Once the promotional period ends, the interest rate will jump to the card’s regular per annum interest, which could be even higher than your current card’s.
- Potential for More Debt: If you’re not disciplined, a balance transfer can tempt you to spend more on your old card, digging yourself into deeper debt.
- Credit Score Impact: Applying for a new credit card for a balance transfer will trigger a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can temporarily lower your credit score by a few points.
How Do Balance Transfers Work?
Now that you understand the pros and cons, let’s walk through the process of how a balance transfer works.
- Research and Compare Offers: Start by shopping around for balance transfer cards. Compare factors like the length of the promotional per annum interest period, balance transfer fees, and the regular per annum interest after the intro period.
- Read the Fine Print: Before applying, carefully read the card’s terms and conditions. Note any restrictions, such as the time limit to make transfers to get the promotional rate.
- Apply for the Card: Once you’ve found the right card, apply for it. You’ll typically need a good to excellent credit score to qualify for the best offers.
- Request the Transfer: Upon approval, contact the new card issuer to initiate the balance transfer. You’ll need to provide details like the account number of the card with the debt and the amount you want to transfer.
- Pay Off Your Balance: Aim to pay off your transferred balance before the promotional period ends to avoid accruing interest at the regular per annum interest.
Tips for a Successful Balance Transfer
To make the most of your balance transfer, keep these tips in mind:
- Have a Repayment Plan: Before transferring a balance, calculate how much you need to pay each month to clear the debt within the promotional period.
- Avoid New Purchases: Resist the temptation to make new purchases with your balance transfer card. New purchases usually don’t get the promotional per annum interest and can accrue interest immediately.
- Pay on Time: Make at least the minimum payment on time each month. Late payments can void your promotional per annum interest and damage your credit score.
- Don’t Close Old Cards: Unless an old card has a high annual fee, consider keeping it open. Closing a card can increase your credit utilisation ratio and potentially hurt your credit score.
Is a Balance Transfer Right for You?
A credit card balance transfer can be a smart tool for managing and paying off high-interest debt. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. A balance transfer might be a good fit if:
- You have a good to excellent credit score to qualify for a 0% per annum interest
- You have a clear plan to pay off the transferred balance within the promotional period.
- The money you’ll save on interest outweighs any balance transfer fees.
- You’re committed to avoiding new debt on your old card.
On the other hand, a balance transfer might not be the best choice if:
- You don’t qualify for a card with a substantially lower interest rate than your current card.
- You need more time to pay off your debt than the promotional period allows.
- You’re likely to use the freed-up credit on your old card to make more purchases.
Making Informed Decisions with Airtel Finance
Managing credit card debt can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Airtel Finance offers a range of tools and resources to help you make informed financial decisions.
With Airtel Finance, you can easily check your credit score, track your spending, and explore personalised credit card offers. Whether you’re considering a balance transfer or looking for ways to optimise your debt repayment strategy, Airtel Finance is here to support you on your financial journey.
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FAQs
- What is a balance transfer fee?
A balance transfer fee is a charge, usually 3-5% of the transferred amount, that you pay to move a balance from one credit card to another.
- How long does a balance transfer take?
A balance transfer can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Continue making payments on your old card until you confirm the transfer is complete.
- Will a balance transfer hurt my credit score?
Applying for a new card for a balance transfer can temporarily lower your score by a few points. However, if the transfer helps you pay down debt and lower your credit utilisation ratio, it can boost your score over time.
- Can I transfer balances between cards from the same issuer?
Generally, no. Most issuers don’t allow balance transfers between their own cards.
- What happens if I don’t pay off my balance during the promotional period?
Any remaining balance will start accruing interest at the card’s regular per annum interest. Aim to pay off the full transferred amount within the promotional window to avoid interest charges.
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