Struggling with high-interest credit card debt? You're not alone. But there is a smart strategy to fight back: balance transfer cards with 0% introductory APR (Annual Percentage Rate). These cards allow you to move your existing credit card balances to a new card with a 0% interest rate for a set period, often 12-21 months. This temporary reprieve from interest charges can significantly accelerate your debt payoff journey.
Here's a breakdown of the top 10 balance transfer cards with 0% APR in 2024, categorized based on your needs:
For the Longest Intro Period:
- Wells Fargo Reflect® Card: Offers a lengthy 0% intro APR on both balance transfers and purchases for up to 21 months (balance transfer fee applies).
- Citi Double Cash® Card: Enjoy a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (balance transfer fee applies). This card also rewards you with cash back on everyday purchases.
- U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card: This card boasts a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (balance transfer fee applies).
For Everyday Spending with Balance Transfer Benefits:
- Discover it® Cash Back: This card offers a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 14 months (balance transfer fee applies). Plus, Discover matches all the cash back you earn at the end of your first year!
- Chase Freedom Flex℠: This card features a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 12 months (balance transfer fee applies). It also offers rotating bonus categories on purchases, allowing you to earn extra cash back.
For Balance Transfer Beginners:
- Wells Fargo Reflect® Card: A user-friendly option with a long intro period (as mentioned above).
- Citi Simplicity® Card: This card offers a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months (balance transfer fee applies) with no late fees – a benefit for those new to managing balance transfers.
For Rewards Enthusiasts (with Good Credit):
- Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card: Extended 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months (balance transfer fee applies), along with potential for earning valuable rewards points.
For Low Balance Transfer Fees:
- U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card: Competitive 0% intro APR with a relatively low balance transfer fee.
- Discover it® Chrome: This card offers a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 14 months with a balance transfer fee on the lower end of the spectrum.
Important Considerations:
- Balance Transfer Fees: Most cards charge a balance transfer fee, typically ranging from 3% to 5% of the transferred amount. Factor this fee into your calculations when comparing cards.
- Creditworthiness: These cards are often geared towards individuals with good or excellent credit scores.
- Intro Period Length: Choose a card with an intro period long enough to realistically pay off your transferred balance.
- Post-Intro APR: Be aware of the APR that will apply after the introductory period ends.
Remember: Balance transfer cards are powerful tools for tackling debt, but they require discipline. Make sure you have a plan to pay off your balance before the intro period ends to avoid accruing high interest charges. By strategically using a balance transfer card with 0% APR, you can save money and make significant progress on your debt payoff journey.