Balance transfer and 0% APR

Intro APR periods, transfer fees, deferred interest traps and a plan to clear the balance before the rate jumps.

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How balance transfer cards work, with the fee math

A balance transfer card moves high-interest debt onto a low or 0% intro APR for a set time, for a one-time fee. It works only if you clear the balance before the intro period ends.

Balance transfer and 0% APR, November 3, 2026

0% intro APR on purchases vs deferred interest: know the difference
Both promise no interest for a while. Only one charges you interest back to the purchase date if a dollar is left when the promotion ends.
5 min read

Balance transfer and 0% APR

How balance transfer cards work, with the fee math

0% intro APR on purchases vs deferred interest: know the difference

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