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Our Top 0% Intro APR Balance Transfer Cards
Cut Interest Costs While You Pay Down Debt
Our experts picked the top balance transfer cards from our partners to help you pay down debt faster and cut interest costs, with long intro APR periods and competitive transfer fees.
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
5.0
BestMoneyscore
0% for 21 months on Balance Transfers & 12 months on Purchases
0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.49% - 27.24%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.49% - 27.24%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 17.49%, 23.99%, or 28.24% variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate, BT fee of 5%, min: $5.
0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 17.49%, 23.99%, or 28.24% variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate, BT fee of 5%, min: $5.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.6
BestMoneyscore
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.49%-28.49%.
Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.49%-28.49%.
BestMoney scores are a dynamic formula that combines the anticipated engagement of a credit card with our editorial team’s assessment of that card based on category-specific criteria. This score is updated whenever card offers change.
0% for 21 months on Balance Transfers & 12 months on Purchases
Regular APR
16.49% - 27.24% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit Score
670-850 (Good to Excellent)
Summary
Editor's Review
Card Features
Pros & Cons
The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card is a solid option if you’re looking to pay down existing debt or finance a large purchase over time. With one of the longest 0% intro APR periods on the market, it’s built for people focused on managing balances.
BestMoney scores are a dynamic formula that combines the anticipated engagement of a credit card with our editorial team’s assessment of that card based on category-specific criteria. This score is updated whenever card offers change.
The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card is designed for consumers seeking an extended introductory APR period, allowing users to manage larger purchases or balances without immediate interest charges. This card is ideal for those who may carry a balance.
BestMoney scores are a dynamic formula that combines the anticipated engagement of a credit card with our editorial team’s assessment of that card based on category-specific criteria. This score is updated whenever card offers change.
BestMoney scores are a dynamic formula that combines the anticipated engagement of a credit card with our editorial team’s assessment of that card based on category-specific criteria. This score is updated whenever card offers change.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Regular APR
17.49%-27.49% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit Score
670-850 (Good to Excellent)
Rewards Breakdown
Editor's Review
Card Features
Pros & Cons
6%
Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice.
3%
Earn 3% cash back after the first year from account opening in your choice category.
2%
Earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs. Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
1%
Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
4.5
BestMoneyscore
BestMoney scores are a dynamic formula that combines the anticipated engagement of a credit card with our editorial team’s assessment of that card based on category-specific criteria. This score is updated whenever card offers change.
The Chase Slate® card offers a 0% intro APR for 21 months on purchases and balance transfers with no annual fee, making it a straightforward option for paying down an existing balance. It also comes with flexible payment features like Chase Pay Over Time and key protections, including zero liability and purchase protection.
BestMoney scores are a dynamic formula that combines the anticipated engagement of a credit card with our editorial team’s assessment of that card based on category-specific criteria. This score is updated whenever card offers change.
BestMoney scores are a dynamic formula that combines the anticipated engagement of a credit card with our editorial team’s assessment of that card based on category-specific criteria. This score is updated whenever card offers change.
0% for 21 months on Balance Transfers & 12 months on Purchases
Regular APR
16.49% - 27.24% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit Score
670-850 (Good to Excellent)
Summary
Editor's Review
Card Features
Pros & Cons
The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card is a solid option if you’re looking to pay down existing debt or finance a large purchase over time. With one of the longest 0% intro APR periods on the market, it’s built for people focused on managing balances.
Yes, balance transfer credit cards can be worth it if you have high-interest debt on existing credit cards. These cards often offer low or 0% introductory APRs for a specific period, allowing you to pay down your debt faster without accruing high interest. However, it's essential to consider any balance transfer fees and ensure you can pay off the transferred balance before the promotional period ends to maximize savings.
2. How do balance transfer credit cards work?
Balance transfer credit cards allow you to move debt from one or more high-interest credit cards to a new card with a lower interest rate or a promotional 0% APR for a limited time. To do this, you apply for a balance transfer card and request the transfer during the application process or afterward. Once approved, the new card issuer pays off your old card balances, and you are responsible for repaying the new card under its terms.
3. When should I get a balance transfer credit card?
You should consider getting a balance transfer credit card if: You have high-interest credit card debt that you're struggling to pay off. You can commit to paying off the balance before the introductory rate expires. You want to simplify your payments by consolidating multiple debts into one monthly payment.
4. Which balance transfer credit card is the best for me?
The best balance transfer credit card for you depends on several factors, including: Your credit score: Many balance transfer cards require good to excellent credit. The length of the promotional period: If you need more time to pay off your balance, look for cards with longer 0% APR terms. Balance transfer fees: Some cards charge a fee (typically 3-5% of the transferred amount), so consider this in your decision. Additional benefits: Some cards offer rewards or perks that may suit your financial goals.
Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards 2026
The best balance transfer credit cards for 2026 offer 0% intro APR for 15 to 21 months, letting you pay down existing credit card debt without accruing interest. Top cards charge balance transfer fees of 3% to 5% and typically require good to excellent credit (FICO 670+). Most have no annual fee, and several include extras such as cash back rewards, purchase protection, and cell phone insurance. Below, we compare intro APR length, fees, and features to help you find the right card for your debt payoff goals.
Balance Transfer Credit Cards at a Glance
The best balance transfer credit cards (in this guide) offer 0% APR on balance transfers for anywhere from 15 to 21 months.
Some top balance transfer cards also extend 0% APR to new spending for a limited time, which can be helpful if you want to pay down a large purchase without interest.
Important features of the best balance transfer cards include lengthy intro APR offers, no annual fee, rewards for spending and consumer protections.
How Do the Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards Compare?
Use this comparison chart framework to organize the best balance transfer cards side by side. You can swap in real card names and current terms, but the columns below capture how readers actually compare offers.
Card Type
Best For
Intro APR Period
Balance Transfer Fee
Annual Fee
Unique Angle
Long-intro 0% card
Large balances, longer payoff
21 months 0% BT
5% of each transfer
$0
Maximizes time; ideal if you need the very best 0 interest balance transfer card
No-fee balance transfer credit card
Lower upfront costs
15 months 0% BT
0% (free balance transfer)
$0
Good if your balance is smaller and you want a free balance transfer
Rewards + 0% intro APR card
Ongoing use after payoff
18 months 0% BT & purchases
3% of each transfer
$0
Combines rewards with a balance transfer credit card no fee for annual fee
Fair-credit balance transfer card
Users rebuilding credit
15 months low intro APR
5% of each transfer
$0–$39
May approve slightly lower scores; not always 0 balance transfer credit cards
Low ongoing APR card
Long-term interest savings
12 months 0% BT
3%–4% of each transfer
$0
Better if you’ll likely carry a balance even after intro ends
What Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card?
A balance transfer credit card lets you move existing debt from one or more credit cards to a new card with a lower interest rate—typically 0% APR for an introductory period of 15 to 21 months. When you initiate a transfer, the new card issuer pays off your old account directly, and the balance (plus a transfer fee of 3% to 5%) appears on your new card.
Most balance transfer cards charge no annual fee. Some include rewards programs, cell phone insurance, or purchase protections, while others skip perks in exchange for longer 0% APR periods. After approval, you receive a credit limit that determines how much debt you can transfer- your total transferred balance plus fees must stay within this limit.
Balance transfer cards are designed for consumers focused on paying down debt. They work best when you have a repayment plan and avoid adding new purchases to the card until your balance is cleared.
A balance transfer reshuffles your debt at a lower rate - but the real savings only show up if you change your payment behavior, not just your card.
Our Recommendations for Balance Transfer Credit Cards
What Are the Pros and Cons of Balance Transfer Credit Cards?
Balance transfer cards can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in interest—but they're not the right move for everyone. Here's what to weigh before applying.
Pros
0% APR on balance transfers for 15 to 21 months (some cards include purchases too)
Pay down debt faster without interest accumulating
Most cards charge no annual fee
Some cards offer cash back or travel rewards
Cardholder perks may include purchase protection, extended warranties, and cell phone insurance
Consolidating multiple balances into one card means one due date—reducing missed payments and late fees
Cons
Balance transfer fees of 3% to 5% are added to your balance upfront
0% APR is temporary—remaining balances after the intro period are charged the card's regular APR (often 18%–29%)
Transfers move debt but don't eliminate it; without a payoff plan, you may end up in the same position
Rewards cards can encourage new spending, which adds to your debt
Most issuers require you to complete transfers within 60 to 120 days to qualify for the intro rate
You typically cannot transfer balances between cards from the same issuer
Note: Most card issuers won't let you consolidate debt from one of their cards onto another of their products. For example, Chase won't let you consolidate debt from other Chase credit cards and loans onto one of its balance transfer offers.
A balance transfer moves debt from one or more existing credit cards to a new card, usually one offering 0% intro APR. Here's how the process works step by step:
Apply and get approved. You'll receive a credit limit based on your creditworthiness.
Request the transfer. Provide your old account details through the new issuer's online portal or by phone. You can transfer from multiple cards if your credit limit allows.
The issuer pays your old card. The new card issuer sends payment directly to your old account(s), which typically takes 5 to 14 days.
Balance appears on your new card. The transferred amount plus the balance transfer fee (3%–5%) is added to your new card.
Make monthly payments. Minimum payments are usually 2% to 3% of your balance, but paying more helps you clear the debt before the intro period ends.
Once the 0% intro period expires (typically 15 to 21 months), any remaining balance is charged the card's regular APR - often 18% to 29%. That deadline is your incentive to pay aggressively while interest is paused.
Note: If you have a large amount of debt to transfer, make sure you check for card issuer limits and rules before you pick a new card.
Is a Balance Transfer Worth It?
A balance transfer is worth it when the savings from 0% APR outweigh the transfer fee—and when you have a realistic plan to pay off the balance before the intro period ends. Here's how to decide.
When a balance transfer makes sense:
You have high-interest credit card debt (18%+ APR)
You can pay off most or all of the balance within 15 to 21 months
Your credit score qualifies you for a 0% intro APR card (typically 670+)
You're willing to stop using credit cards for new purchases until you're debt-free
When it may not be worth it:
Your balance is small, and the transfer fee exceeds potential interest savings
You can't afford monthly payments large enough to clear the debt during the intro period
You're likely to keep spending on credit cards while carrying a balance
Cost Comparison Example: $8,000 balance at 24% APR
Scenario
Monthly Payment
Time to Payoff
Total Interest/Fees
Current Card
$400
26 months
$2,318 (Interest)
0% APR Transfer
$400
21 months
$240 (3% Fee)
Total Savings
—
5 months faster
$2,078 Saved
The formula is simple: compare "interest paid if I do nothing" vs. "fee paid if I transfer." If the fee is lower, the transfer is worth it.
How Much Can You Save With a Balance Transfer?
To determine if balance transfer is worth it for you, input your information. Enter your current balance, APR, and the terms of a balance transfer card to see the potential difference.
Balance transfer savings calculator
Transferring debt to a credit card with a 0% introductory annual percentage rate, or APR, could save you hundreds of dollars in interest while you pay down your debt.
Your existing credit card debt
15
%
Details of balance transfer card
3
%
Important Assumptions
These savings are an estimate. To realize them, you must pay off the entire transferred balance before the 0% introductory period ends.
This calculation assumes you make equal monthly payments to clear the debt in time.
The 0% offer may not apply to new purchases. Check the card's terms and conditions.
After the intro period, the interest rate will increase to a much higher standard rate. Any remaining balance will accrue interest at that new rate.
To pay off your debt in time, divide your new balance (debt + transfer fee) by the number of 0% months to find your required monthly payment.
* Interest calculations are estimates. Actual finance charges will vary according to your payments and your credit card's terms.
What Features Should You Look for in a Balance Transfer Card?
Not all balance transfer cards are equal. These are the key features to compare based on your debt payoff goals.
Intro APR Length
The longer the 0% APR period, the more time you have to pay down debt interest-free. Most cards offer 15 to 21 months. Choose based on your balance: if you can pay off $5,000 in 15 months, a shorter intro period with better perks may be the smarter pick. If you're carrying $15,000+, prioritize the longest 0% window you can get.
Balance Transfer Fee
Most cards charge 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. A lower fee saves money upfront, but cards with longer intro periods often charge 5%. Do the math: a 5% fee on a 21-month card may still cost less than a 3% fee on a 15-month card if it helps you avoid interest entirely.
Annual Fee
Most balance transfer cards charge no annual fee—stick with those unless a card's benefits clearly justify the cost.
Cardholder Benefits
Some cards include purchase protection, extended warranties, cell phone insurance, or rental car coverage. These matter most if you plan to keep the card after paying off your balance.
Rewards Program
Many 0% APR cards offer cash back (typically 1%–2%) or travel points. Rewards are a nice bonus but shouldn't be the priority—focus on paying down debt first, and avoid letting rewards tempt you into new spending.
How Do You Choose the Right Balance Transfer Card?
Follow these steps to find a balance transfer card that matches your debt payoff goals.
Step 1: Check your credit score
Most 0% APR balance transfer cards require good to excellent credit—typically a FICO score of 670 or higher. If your score is below that, you may need to improve it before applying, or look for cards designed for fair credit (though these rarely offer 0% APR).
Step 2: Add up your debt
Total the balances you want to transfer. This number determines how long you need 0% APR and helps you estimate monthly payments.
Step 3: Calculate your monthly payoff target
Divide your total debt (plus the transfer fee) by the intro period length. For example:
Debt
Transfer Fee (3%)
Total Owed
Intro Period
Monthly Payment Needed
$5,000
$150
$5,150
15 months
$344
$10,000
$300
$10,300
21 months
$491
If the monthly payment is higher than you can afford, consider a longer intro period or combining a balance transfer with other strategies.
Step 4: Compare cards on what matters most
Prioritize based on your situation:
Large balance? → Longest intro APR (21 months)
Smaller balance? → Lower transfer fee or better perks
Plan to keep the card? → Look at rewards and benefits
Step 5: Apply for one card at a time
Each application triggers a hard inquiry on your credit report. Apply for your top choice first and wait for the decision before trying another.
What Do Experts Recommend for Balance Transfer Success?
A balance transfer only works if you use it strategically. These tips from financial experts can help you maximize savings and avoid common mistakes.
Expert Tip 1: Pay Down Debt Before Chasing Rewards
"The goal should be reaching a point where balance transfers aren't necessary, allowing you to focus on earning points for travel rather than managing debt. If your card offers cash back or points, treat it as a bonus and not a reason to spend more.”
— Michael Gandaraaward travel coach
Expert Tip 2: Factor in the Balance Transfer Fee
“It's still often worth the upfront cost, but an important consideration when transferring debt. Run the numbers: a 3%–5% fee is worth paying only if it's less than the interest you'd owe otherwise.”
— Leslie H. TayneEsq., founder of Tayne Law Group and credit and debt attorney
Expert Tip 3: Build a Payoff Plan Before You Transfer
“Once you know the introductory interest rate expiration date, create a budget to pay down your debt based on that timeframe. Divide your total balance (including the fee) by the number of months in your intro period—that's your monthly target.”
— Leslie H. TayneEsq., founder of Tayne Law Group and credit and debt attorney
Set a calendar reminder for your intro period end date
The 0% APR expires on a specific date, and any remaining balance starts accruing interest at the regular rate (often 18%–29%). Set a reminder 2–3 months before so you can assess your progress and adjust if needed.
Set up autopay for at least the minimum
A single missed payment can void your 0% intro APR on some cards. Autopay protects you from accidentally triggering the penalty rate.
Don't close your old cards
After transferring a balance, keep your old accounts open (unless they charge an annual fee). Closing them reduces your total available credit, which can increase your credit utilization ratio and lower your score.
Compare With BestMoney.com, Choose the Best for You
At BestMoney.com, we understand the importance of making informed financial decisions. Our team of financial experts and editors conducts thorough research across lending, banking, home loans, personal finance, and insurance to provide you with comprehensive comparisons and insights. We continuously update our content to reflect the latest market trends and offerings, ensuring you have access to current, reliable information.
We offer a wide range of services including detailed comparison tools and expert reviews, all designed to meet your specific financial needs. Our mission is to empower you to make confident, well-informed choices that help you achieve your financial goals.
Methodology: How We Chose the Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
When evaluating balance transfer credit cards we focused on the features that directly contribute to interest savings and a successful debt management strategy.
We evaluated the cards using the following specific criteria:
Length of 0% Intro APR Period: This is the most critical factor. We prioritized cards offering the longest possible interest-free window, as this gives consumers the maximum amount of time to pay off their transferred balance without accruing interest.
Balance Transfer Fee: We compared the one-time fee charged for transferring a balance, which is typically 3% to 5% of the transferred amount. Cards with lower fees scored higher, as this reduces the upfront cost of the transfer.
Regular APR: We considered the ongoing APR that applies after the introductory period ends. A lower regular APR provides a better safety net in case a balance remains.
Card Features: We looked at other relevant factors, such as the absence of an annual fee and the potential credit limit offered, which determines how much debt can be consolidated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Balance Transfer Credit Cards
Are balance transfer credit cards worth it? Yes, if you have high-interest credit card debt and can pay off most or all of the balance during the 0% intro APR period (typically 15–21 months). The transfer fee (3%–5%) is usually far less than the interest you'd pay otherwise. They're not worth it if your balance is small, you can't afford meaningful monthly payments, or you're likely to keep adding new charges.
How do balance transfer credit cards work? You apply for a new card with a 0% intro APR offer. Once approved, you request a transfer of your existing balances. The new issuer pays off your old card(s) directly, and the balance—plus a 3%–5% transfer fee—appears on your new card. You then have 15–21 months to pay it off interest-free.
How long does a balance transfer take? Most transfers are completed within 5 to 14 days, though some issuers may take up to 21 days. Continue making payments on your old card until you confirm the transfer is complete to avoid late fees or interest.
Do balance transfers hurt your credit score? Applying triggers a hard inquiry, which may temporarily lower your score by a few points. However, the new credit line can reduce your overall credit utilization ratio, which typically helps your score. Paying down debt and making on-time payments will improve your credit over time.
Can I transfer a balance between cards from the same bank? Usually no. Most issuers don't allow transfers between their own cards. For example, you can't move a balance from one Chase card to another Chase card. You'll need to transfer to a card from a different issuer.
What happens if I miss a payment on a balance transfer card? A missed payment can result in a late fee ($30–$41 typically) and may void your 0% intro APR, triggering the card's penalty APR (often 29.99%). Set up autopay for at least the minimum payment to protect yourself.
When should I get a balance transfer credit card? When you have high-interest debt you're committed to paying off, your credit score qualifies you for a 0% APR offer (usually 670+), and you have a realistic plan to clear the balance before the intro period ends.
Which balance transfer credit card is best for me? It depends on your balance size and payoff timeline. If you need maximum time, prioritize the longest 0% intro period (up to 21 months). If your balance is smaller, a card with a lower transfer fee or better rewards may be the smarter choice. Use the comparison chart above to match cards to your situation.
Introductory APR: 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 17.49%, 23.99%, or 28.24% variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate, BT fee of 5%, min: $5.
Balance Transfer Fee: 5%, min $5.
Standard APR: 17.49%, 23.99%, or 28.24%
Why we picked it: The Wells Fargo Reflect® is one of the "heavy hitters" in the industry. It offers one of the longest 0% intro APR periods available. This makes it ideal for those with significant debt who need the maximum amount of time to pay it off without the pressure of accruing interest.
Pros:
Nearly two years of 0% interest
No annual fee
Cell phone protection (up to $600) when you pay your bill with the card
Introductory APR: 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.49% - 27.24%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
Balance Transfer Fee: 5%, min $5.
Standard APR: 16.49% - 27.24%
Why we picked it: Similar to the Reflect, the Citi® Diamond Preferred® is designed specifically for people looking to offload high-interest debt. It offers a massive window for transfers. It’s a "no-frills" card that focuses on giving you breathing room from interest.
Pros:
Top-tier intro period
Access to Citi Entertainment® (presale tickets, etc.)
No annual fee
Cons:
Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
Introductory APR: Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.24% - 27.74%.
Balance Transfer Fee: 3% for the first 60 days, then 5%.
Standard APR: 18.24% - 27.74%
Why we picked it: While the intro period is shorter, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a superior "all-around" card. It offers a lower initial transfer fee (3%) and allows you to earn high cash-back rates on your spending after you've cleared your debt.
Pros:
Lower 3% intro transfer fee (save $100 for every $5,000 transferred)
Earns 5% back on travel, 3% on dining/drugstores, and 1.5% on everything else
Valuable long-term card even after the 0% period ends
Cons:
Shorter intro window compared to other cards
Requires disciplined spending
Disclosures
Wells Fargo
Disclosure: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of BestMoney alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.
Bank of America
Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
Chase Slate®
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
