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If you're looking to temporarily avoid interest on your existing credit card balances, a balance transfer card can be a game changer. By offering 0% introductory APR for a set period, these cards help you pay down debt faster without the burden of high interest rates. Best of all, every card on this list comes with no annual fee, so you can maximize your savings while working toward financial freedom.
Best for large balance transfers: Discover it® Chrome (rates and fees)
Best for purchases: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (rates and fees)
Great for: Balance transfers and cash back
Good/Excellent (670-850)
Intro APR
Purchases: 0%, 6 months
Balance Transfers: 0%, 18 months
Regular APR
18.24% - 27.24% Variable APR
Rewards 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases - automatically
1% - 2% Cashback
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.
The main draw of this Discover card is the balance transfer offer, which is one of the best we've come across. Unlike many balance transfer cards, it combines that with cash back rewards. But the cash back program doesn't measure up to what other cards offer. Read Full Review
This card is great for: Combining the perks of cash back rewards with a strong balance transfer offer.
With a 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers (3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*) and 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants, up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, this card is designed to save you money while rewarding everyday spending. (After the intro period, the go-to APR of 18.24% - 27.24% Variable APR applies.)
Plus, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year. This first-year bonus adds even more value to an already powerful package -- all with no annual fee.
Great for: Long 0% intro APR
Good/Excellent (670-850)
Intro APR 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Purchases: 0% intro APR, 21 months from account opening
Balance Transfers: 0% intro APR, 21 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Regular APR
XX.XX%, XX.XX.%, or XX.XX% Variable APR thereafter
Rewards
N/A
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
N/A
This no-frills card is a solid choice if your priority is to avoid credit card interest for as long as possible. It offers an incredible intro APR. The balance transfer fee (5%; $5 min.) is higher than some cards, but if you want an equally long intro APR on purchases, this card is hard to beat. Read Full Review
This card is great for: Locking in one of the longest 0% intro APR periods available.
With a 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers and purchases (5%, min: $5 balance transfer fee), the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card gives you nearly two years of interest-free breathing room. After the intro period, the go-to rate of XX.XX%, XX.XX.%, or XX.XX% Variable APR thereafter applies. Whether you're consolidating debt or managing new expenses, this card helps you pay down balances faster while avoiding interest.
Add in perks like cell phone protection and a $0 annual fee, and it's easy to see why it's a standout choice for balance transfer shoppers.
Great for: Unlimited cash back
Good/Excellent (670-850)
Intro APR 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Purchases: 0% intro APR, 12 months from account opening
Balance Transfers: 0% intro APR, 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Regular APR
XX.XX%, XX.XX%, or XX.XX% Variable APR
Rewards Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
2% cash rewards
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
$200 cash rewards
This card’s unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases is the highest we’ve seen for a flat-rate rewards card with no annual fee. It also has an incredibly easy-to-earn $200 welcome bonus and a decent intro APR offer. We simply haven’t come across this combination of top perks in one card before. Read Full Review
This card is great for: Paying down balances while earning unlimited rewards.
With a 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers and purchases (up to 5%, min: $5 balance transfer fee), the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers flexibility for managing debt and new spending. After the intro period, the go-to rate of XX.XX%, XX.XX%, or XX.XX% Variable APR applies.
Plus, you'll earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases, making it a top choice for shoppers who want to combine debt repayment with ongoing value.
Add to that cell phone protection and a $0 annual fee, and you've got a powerful card for balance transfers and everyday spending alike.
Great for: Long 0% intro APR
Good/Excellent (670-850)
Intro APR
Purchases: 0%, 12 months on Purchases
Balance Transfers: 0%, 21 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR
18.24% - 28.99% (Variable)
Rewards
N/A
Annual Fee N/A
$0
Welcome Offer There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Long intro balance transfer APR
This is one of our favorite cards for balance transfers. It has 0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers and a discounted balance transfer fee for the first four months. That combo makes it one of the most generous balance transfer offers we’ve seen. But it doesn't have much ongoing value after the intro 0% APR period ends. Read Full Review
This card is great for: Paying off debt with one of the longest 0% intro APR periods available.
This Citi card has a 0% intro APR for 21 months on Balance Transfers. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5). The Citi Simplicity® Card gives you ample time to pay down debt without worrying about interest. Plus, enjoy a 0% intro APR for 12 months on Purchases and the flexibility to choose your payment due date, making it easier to manage your finances. After the intro period, the go-to rate of 18.24% - 28.99% (Variable) applies.
Add in a $0 annual fee, and it's clear why this card is a go-to for those looking to consolidate debt and avoid interest for the long haul.
Great for: Balance transfers and cash back
Fair to Excellent (580-850)
Intro APR
Purchases: N/A
Balance Transfers: 0%, 18 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR
18.24% - 28.24% (Variable)
Rewards Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, a special travel offer, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/25.
2% cash back
Annual Fee N/A
$0
Welcome Offer Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
$200
This card combines a top-notch balance transfer offer with best-in-class unlimited 2% cash back on purchases. There's no introductory APR for purchases, so you'll need to pay those off in full every month if you want to avoid interest charges. Read Full Review
This card is great for: Getting the best of both worlds -- paying off debt with 0% interest and earning unlimited cash back.
This card offers a 0% intro APR for 18 months on Balance Transfers. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5). After the intro period, the go-to rate of 18.24% - 28.24% (Variable) applies.
The Citi Double Cash® Card gives you nearly two years to pay down balances interest free. Plus, earn 2% cash back on all purchases -- 1% when you buy and 1% when you pay -- making it one of the top rewards cards available.
New cardholders also earn $200 cash back after spending just $1,500 in the first 6 months. With a $0 annual fee, this card is a solid choice for those seeking savings and rewards all in one.
Great for: Rewards versatility
On Chase's Secure Website.
On Chase's Secure Website.
Good/Excellent (670-850)
Intro APR 0% Intro APR on Purchases
Purchases: 0% Intro APR on Purchases, 15 months
Balance Transfers: 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers, 15 months
Regular APR
19.49% - 28.24% Variable
Rewards 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
1% - 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening!
$200 bonus
This Chase card is one of our favorites, and with good reason. You earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate, alongside other standout perks (and at least 1% on all purchases). Plus, this one comes without an annual fee and with a generous welcome bonus. Read Full Review
This card is great for: Combining balance transfers with valuable rewards.
This card has a 0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers. (Balance transfer fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater in the first 60 days. Then either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.) After the intro period, the go-to rate of 19.49% - 28.24% Variable applies.
The Chase Freedom Flex® gives you ample time to pay down debt interest free. Plus, earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases, making it a top choice for those who want to earn rewards while managing debt.
New cardholders can also earn a $200 bonus after spending just $500 in the first 3 months. With a $0 annual fee, this card offers great value for both debt management and ongoing rewards.
Great for: Rewards
On Bank of America's Secure Website.
On Bank of America's Secure Website.
Good/Excellent (670-850)
Intro APR 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases. 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers will apply. A 3% fee for 60 days from account opening, then 4% fee applies to all balance transfers.
Purchases: 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Balance Transfers: 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
Regular APR
18.24% - 28.24% (Variable)
Rewards 3% cash back in the category of your choice, 2% at at grocery stores and wholesale clubs for the first $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases, 1% on all other purchases.
1% - 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
$200 cash back
This card's wide range of extra cash back options speaks for itself, with a choice of six bonus categories you can change monthly for 3% earnings in the category of your choice. And you can earn 2% back automatically at grocery stores and wholesale clubs. No annual fee and a nice welcome bonus also make this one a winner. Plus, if you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, this card will be even more valuable for you. Read Full Review
This card is great for: Tailoring rewards to fit your spending habits while paying down debt.
With a 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on balance transfers (3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4%), the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card gives you plenty of time to pay off balances interest free. After the intro period, the go-to rate of 18.24% - 28.24% (Variable) applies.
You'll also earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice like gas, online shopping, dining, or drugstores, plus 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs for the first $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases.
Add in a $200 online cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days and $0 annual fee, and you have a fantastic card for both managing debt and earning rewards.
Apply for Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
Great for: Balance transfers and purchases
Good/Excellent (670-850)
Intro APR 0% on purchases and balance transfers for the first 21 billing cycles on purchases billing cycles, and after that 18.24% - 29.24% (Variable).
Purchases: 0%, 21 billing cycles on purchases
Balance Transfers: 0%, 21 billing cycles
Regular APR
18.24% - 29.24% (Variable)
Rewards
N/A
Annual Fee
N/A
Welcome Offer
N/A
Got a big purchase to finance over time? Consider this U.S. Bank card, as it'll give you a whopping 21 billing cycles of 0% APR on purchases. This also goes for balance transfers, making this one a great fit if you have some existing debt to pay off. It also comes without an annual fee.
This card is great for: Focusing solely on paying down large balances with no distractions.
With a 0% intro APR for 21 billing cycles on balance transfers (5% of each transfer amount, $5 minimum), the U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card offers one of the longest interest-free periods available. Whether you're consolidating debt or managing a large purchase, this card gives you nearly two years of financial flexibility to pay off your balance without accruing interest.
Plus, with no annual fee, it's an ideal choice for anyone looking to simplify their finances and save on interest.
Despite the Federal Reserve recently cutting rates, the interest rates on credit cards are still near all-time highs. By transferring an existing balance to a new card, you may benefit from 0% interest for a certain period of months.
Furthermore, you may be eligible for rewards, such as cash back, that you’re not receiving (or at least maximizing) with your current card. Start by looking at the highest-rated card that provides the best collection of rewards for you.
-Robert Brokamp, Certified Financial Planner® and Senior Advisor at The Motley Fool
A balance transfer credit card is a type of credit card that allows you to move high-interest debt from one or more credit cards or loans to a new card, often at a lower interest rate, sometimes even 0% for an introductory period. The main benefit is that it gives you time to pay down your balance without the burden of high interest, helping you save money in the long run.
These cards typically charge a balance transfer fee (usually 3% to 5% of the amount transferred), and the 0% APR offer is usually good for a set period, such as 12 to 21 months. After that, the standard interest rate will apply.
Looking for more information about the balance transfer process? Check out our guide on how to do a balance transfer here.
Choosing a balance transfer credit card over other debt repayment methods can offer several advantages.
The main draw is the introductory 0% APR on balance transfers, which can save you a significant amount on interest charges, especially compared to high-interest credit cards or personal loans. This allows more of your payments to go toward the principal, accelerating your debt payoff.
For example, we calculate that you could save $1,863 on interest alone if planning to pay down $10,000 of high-interest credit card debt with a balance transfer card that offers 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months. Here's how that breaks out.
Use our balance transfer calculator to determine if a balance transfer card can actually help you save money on high interest fees.
DEBT BALANCE SCENARIO | MONTHLY PAYMENT | APR FOR BALANCE TRANSFERS | INTEREST CHARGES | MONTHS TO PAY OFF |
---|---|---|---|---|
$10,000, promo APR | $556 | 0% | $0 | 18 |
$10,000, no promo APR | $556 | 19% on all balances | $1,863 | 22 |
A balance transfer card can help consolidate multiple credit card balances into one, simplifying your payments and potentially reducing the risk of missed payments. Managing one payment is less stressful than juggling several accounts with varying due dates and interest rates.
Many balance transfer cards offer a long 0% APR period, sometimes 12 to 21 months, giving you time to pay off your debt without accumulating high interest charges. This can be more manageable than personal loans with fixed repayment periods and higher interest rates.
Unlike home equity loans or personal loans, balance transfer cards do not require you to pledge assets (like your home) as collateral, making them less risky in that sense.
If you manage to pay off your balance within the 0% intro period, you can improve your credit score by reducing your debt-to-credit ratio and avoiding late payments.
However, it's important to be mindful of the balance transfer fee (typically 3%-5%) and the fact that if you don't pay off the balance within the introductory period, the remaining balance will be subject to the standard high APR.
When choosing the best balance transfer credit card for your situation, consider these five key factors to ensure you're maximizing savings and aligning with your financial goals.
The length of the introductory 0% APR offer is one of the most important factors. A longer 0% APR period, such as 12 to 21 months, gives you more time to pay off your debt without accruing interest. However, it's crucial to also look at the regular APR after this period ends to avoid being hit with high interest if you're unable to pay off the full balance in time.
Most balance transfer cards charge a fee, typically 3%-5% of the amount transferred. While these fees can add up, they may still be worthwhile if the interest savings from the 0% APR outweigh the cost of the fee. Keep an eye out for promotions offering 0% APR with no balance transfer fee, which can be especially advantageous.
Ensure the card's credit limit is high enough to cover your balance transfer needs. If the credit limit is too low, you may not be able to transfer the full amount of your debt, limiting the effectiveness of the card. Look for cards with higher credit limits or the possibility of requesting an increase after approval.
Consider how long you'll need to pay off the transferred balance. If you're confident you can pay it off within the introductory period, the card will likely save you money. However, if you anticipate needing more time, look for a card with a longer 0% APR period. Also, be cautious of using the card for new purchases, as they may carry higher interest rates.
Some balance transfer cards charge annual fees or late payment fees, so it's important to choose a card with minimal extra costs. Additionally, some cards offer rewards programs or cash back, which can add value if you plan to use the card for other purchases. However, it's essential to prioritize the balance transfer benefit and avoid overspending, as the high interest rates on new purchases could negate the rewards.
By focusing on these five factors -- introductory APR period, transfer fees, credit limit, repayment strategy, and additional fees and perks -- you can make a well-informed decision and choose a balance transfer credit card that suits your financial situation and helps you pay off debt more efficiently.
When shopping for a balance transfer card, it's crucial to factor in the balance transfer fee, which typically ranges from 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. While this fee might seem like an added cost, it's important to consider whether the savings from the 0% intro APR outweigh the upfront fee.
To maximize savings, aim to pay off your balance before the 0% APR period ends, as this will allow you to avoid interest charges, making the fee less of a burden. Calculate the fee against your debt and compare how much interest you'd pay on your current card to help determine whether a balance transfer is worth it.
Card | Rating | Great For |
---|---|---|
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best = Excellent = Good = Fair = Poor |
Great For: Balance transfers and cash back |
|
2025 Award Winner
|
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best = Excellent = Good = Fair = Poor |
Great For: Long 0% intro APR |
2025 Award Winner
|
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best = Excellent = Good = Fair = Poor |
Great For: Unlimited cash back |
2025 Award Winner
|
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best = Excellent = Good = Fair = Poor |
Great For: Long 0% intro APR |
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best = Excellent = Good = Fair = Poor |
Great For: Balance transfers and cash back |
|
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best = Excellent = Good = Fair = Poor |
Great For: Rewards versatility |
|
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best = Excellent = Good = Fair = Poor |
Great For: Rewards |
|
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best = Excellent = Good = Fair = Poor |
Great For: Balance transfers and purchases |
By planning ahead and choosing the right card, you can make the most of the 0% APR offer and minimize the impact of the transfer fee.
At Motley Fool Money, we rate credit cards on a five-star scale (1 = poor, 5 = best). Our rating criteria includes rewards rates, welcome bonuses, fees, and perks like travel credits and 0% intro APR offers.
Our highest-rated credit cards have:
We combine these factors with an evaluation of brand reputation and customer satisfaction to ensure you're getting the best card recommendations. Our aim is to maintain a balanced best-of list featuring top-scoring credit cards from reputable brands.
Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list, but our product recommendations are NEVER influenced by advertisers. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates credit cards.
After the introductory APR period ends, the go-to standard interest rate on your balance transfer card will apply. This rate can be significantly higher than the introductory APR, often ranging from 15% to 29%, depending on the card.
To avoid paying high interest, aim to pay off your transferred balance before the intro period expires. If you don't, you'll begin accruing interest at the new rate on any remaining balance.
You should keep your balance transfer card until your debt is paid off or until the introductory APR period expires. Ideally, aim to pay off your balance within the intro period to avoid paying interest. After that, if you no longer need the card, consider closing it or keeping it for occasional use.
Be cautious with canceling a card, as it could affect your credit score if it reduces your available credit.
Yes, many balance transfer cards allow you to transfer balances from multiple cards. However, there may be limits to how much you can transfer, either in total or per card. Be sure to check the specific terms of the card you're interested in, and remember that you may be charged a fee for each balance transfer, which can add up if you transfer from several accounts.
To apply for a balance transfer card, you typically need a good to excellent credit score. The application process is straightforward:
Most issuers won't allow balance transfers between cards at their institution. When choosing a card, make sure it is from a different issuer than the card whose balance you want to transfer.
We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Motley Fool Money is 100% owned and operated by The Motley Fool. Our knowledgeable team of personal finance editors and analysts are employed by The Motley Fool and held to the same set of publishing standards and editorial integrity while maintaining professional separation from the analysts and editors on other Motley Fool brands.
The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Visa.