Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards. Finding the right credit card to manage your debt can be overwhelming, but a balance transfer credit card might be the solution you need. These cards often offer low or 0% introductory APRs, helping you save on interest and pay off balances faster. This blog will detail the best balance transfer credit cards, their features, and how they can benefit you.
1.0 Chase Slate Edge
The Chase Slate Edge™ is one of the best balance transfer credit cards, offering a 0% introductory APR for 18 months on balance transfers and purchases. After the introductory period, a variable APR of 17.24% to 25.99% applies.
Example: If you transfer $5,000 within the first 60 days, there is no balance transfer fee, saving you money compared to other cards. According to NerdWallet (2023), the Chase Slate Edge™ is ideal for those with good to excellent credit scores.
2.0 Citi Diamond Preferred Card
The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card is another top contender among the best balance transfer credit cards. It offers a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for 21 months—one of the longest promotional periods available.
Example: A $7,000 transfer with no interest for nearly two years provides ample time to pay off your balance. Forbes Advisor (2023) ranks this card highly for its extended promotional APR period.
3.0Discover it® Balance Transfer
The Discover it® Balance Transfer card stands out with its cashback rewards and competitive APR. It offers 0% APR on balance transfers for 18 months and 5% cashback on rotating categories.
Example: Transfer $3,000 and enjoy 18 months of 0% APR while earning rewards on new purchases. CreditCards.com (2023) praises the Discover it® for its unique combination of rewards and balance transfer benefits.
4.0 Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card is one of the best balance transfer credit cards, offering up to 21 months of 0% APR on qualifying transfers. However, it charges a 3% balance transfer fee.
Example: For a $10,000 transfer, the fee would be $300, but the long promotional period offsets this cost. Bankrate (2023) highlights this card for its flexibility and extended APR offer.
5.0 BankAmericard® Credit Card
The BankAmericard® Credit Card offers a 0% introductory APR for 18 billing cycles on balance transfers made within the first 60 days. It’s a straightforward card with no rewards program, making it perfect for debt repayment.
Example: Transfer $4,000 and save on interest for 18 months without distractions from rewards or perks. U.S. News & World Report (2023) recommends this card for its simplicity and low ongoing APR.
6.0 U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card is another excellent option among the best balance transfer credit cards, offering a 0% introductory APR for 18 billing cycles.
Example: Use this card for large transfers like $8,000 and enjoy significant savings on interest. Investopedia (2023) highlights this card’s extended APR period as a key feature.
7.0 American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card
The American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card combines a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfers with cashback rewards.
Example: Transfer $2,000 and earn 3% cashback on groceries while paying no interest for over a year. CNBC (2023) notes that this card is ideal for households looking to save on both debt and everyday expenses.
8.0 Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Among the best balance transfer credit cards, the Capital One Quicksilver offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases, with no annual fee.
Example: Transfer $1,500 and enjoy flat-rate cashback on new purchases while eliminating interest. NerdWallet (2023) highlights this card for its combination of simplicity and rewards.
9.0 Citi Simplicity® Card
The Citi Simplicity® Card lives up to its name with no late fees or penalty APRs. It offers 0% APR on balance transfers for 21 months, making it one of the best balance transfer credit cards for avoiding additional fees.
Example: Transfer $6,000 and enjoy stress-free repayment for nearly two years. Experian (2023) recommends this card for those who prioritize flexibility and transparency.
10 HSBC Gold Credit Card
The HSBC Gold Credit Card rounds out our list of the best balance transfer credit cards with its 0% introductory APR for 18 months and no annual fee. It’s a no-frills option ideal for debt repayment.
Example: Transfer $3,500 and focus on paying down the balance without distractions. WalletHub (2023) names this card a top choice for its straightforward approach to balance transfers.
11 Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a balance transfer credit card?
A balance transfer credit card allows you to transfer high-interest debt from other credit cards to take advantage of a lower or 0% introductory APR, helping you save on interest costs. - How do I choose the best balance transfer credit card?
Look for a card with a long 0% introductory APR period, low or no balance transfer fees, and features that match your financial goals. - Are there any fees for balance transfers?
Most balance transfer credit cards charge a fee of 3% to 5% of the transferred amount. Some cards, like the Chase Slate Edge™, waive this fee during the introductory period. - How does a balance transfer affect my credit score?
Initially, your credit score may dip slightly due to the hard inquiry and increase in credit utilization. Over time, paying off balances can improve your score. - Can I transfer balances between cards from the same bank?
No, most banks do not allow balance transfers between their own cards. - What happens if I don’t pay off the balance before the promotional APR ends?
Any remaining balance will accrue interest at the card’s standard APR, which can be significantly higher than the promotional rate. - Are balance transfers worth it?
Yes, if you have high-interest debt and can pay off most or all of the balance during the 0% APR period, balance transfers can save you money. - Can I use a balance transfer credit card for new purchases?
Some cards offer 0% APR on purchases as well, but it’s essential to read the terms and avoid mixing balances to simplify repayments. - How much can I transfer to a balance transfer credit card?
The amount depends on the card’s credit limit, which is determined by your creditworthiness and financial history. - What are the risks of using a balance transfer credit card?
Risks include failing to pay off the balance during the promotional period, incurring high fees, or accumulating new debt due to a false sense of financial relief.
12 Conclusion
Choosing the best balance transfer credit cards depends on your specific financial needs, including the size of your debt, your repayment timeline, and any additional features you value. By carefully comparing options like those listed above, you can save money, reduce stress, and achieve financial stability.
References:
- Bankrate. (2023). Top balance transfer credit cards. Retrieved from https://www.bankrate.com
- CreditCards.com. (2023). Best balance transfer cards for 2023. Retrieved from https://www.creditcards.com
- Experian. (2023). Credit card options for debt management. Retrieved from https://www.experian.com
- Forbes Advisor. (2023). Balance transfer credit card reviews. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com
- NerdWallet. (2023). Best balance transfer cards. Retrieved from https://www.nerdwallet.com
- U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Best credit cards for balance transfers. Retrieved from https://www.usnews.com
- WalletHub. (2023). HSBC Gold Credit Card review. Retrieved from https://www.wallethub.com
Also Read:
What Is a Credit Card Balance Transfer? Should You Use One?
10 Ways on How Credit Card Limits are Determined by Companies and Banks
What Is APR on a Credit Card? Understanding 5 APRs (Interest Rate) and How They Affect You
6 Best Credit Card for Improving Your Financial Position
6 Best Credit Card for Improving Your Financial Position
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