15 Best Balance Transfer Cards

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated July 25, 2025

Balance transfer cards can help you tackle credit card debt by moving your balance to a new card with a 0% intro APR—often for 12 to 21 months. This gives you time to pay down what you owe without added interest. The best cards offer long no-interest periods, low fees, and sometimes even cash back or perks. This list highlights 15 top options, from straightforward debt-reduction tools to flexible rewards cards.

  • Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

    The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card is a strong pick for anyone focused on paying off debt without the added cost of interest. It stands out by offering one of the longest 0% intro APR periods available, giving cardholders extended time to manage balances from other high-interest cards.

    This card prioritizes simplicity over extras like rewards or bonuses. Its value lies in providing a long-term interest-free period, making it ideal for users who want to concentrate on reducing debt rather than juggling points or cashback programs.

    Card Details:

    • Intro APR: 0% for up to 21 months on purchases and balance transfers
    • Regular APR: Variable, around 17.99% – 29.74%
    • Balance Transfer Fee: 3% or $5 minimum (whichever is greater)
    • Annual Fee: $0

    Key Benefits:

    • Long 0% intro APR period for balance transfers and purchases
    • No annual fee
    • Helps reduce interest costs significantly

    Wells Fargo Reflect® requires good to excellent credit for approval. It may not be the best fit for those who carry small balances or want to earn cash back or rewards.

    Why it Works for Beginners: This card is great for beginners who need time to pay down debt without growing interest. It’s easy to understand and focuses on saving money, not rewards.

  • Citi Double Cash® Card

    The Citi Double Cash® Card offers a rare combination of debt management and everyday rewards. With a long 0% intro APR period on balance transfers and no annual fee, it’s well-suited for users who want to reduce interest while continuing to use the card for purchases.

    Its straightforward cashback setup sets it apart—ideal for those who prefer consistent earnings without tracking categories. The card keeps things simple, which is helpful for anyone focusing on both repayment and steady value over time.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1% cash back on every purchase
    • Additional 1% cash back as payments are made on those purchases

    There is no specific welcome bonus for this card, but the long 0% APR intro period on balance transfers can save money during the initial months.

    Card Details:

    • Intro APR on Balance Transfers: 0% for 18 months
    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Rewards Rate: 2% total cash back (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay)
    • Credit Needed: Good to excellent credit

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee
    • 2% flat cashback on purchases
    • 18 months 0% APR on balance transfers
    • 24/7 fraud monitoring for security

    Cashback rewards can be redeemed as a statement credit, check, or direct deposit, offering flexible options for cardholders.

    Why it Works for Beginners: This card works well for beginners because it has no annual fee and simple rewards. The flat cashback rate makes it easy to understand how much you are earning. The long balance transfer period helps manage debt with less interest. The main drawback is no bonus categories or perks outside the cashback and intro APR.

  • Chase Freedom Unlimited®

    The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a practical choice for people looking to manage existing credit card debt while continuing to earn rewards on daily purchases. Its introductory APR offer adds flexibility for users who need time to pay down balances without immediate interest.

    What makes this card appealing is its balance of utility and earning potential. It provides value whether you’re focused on interest savings or maximizing cash back without juggling complex reward structures.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1.5% cash back on all purchases
    • Up to 5% cash back on select categories

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn a cash bonus after spending a certain amount within the first few months. (Check Chase’s current offers for exact details.)

    Card Details:

    • Intro APR: 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
    • Regular APR: 18.99% – 28.49% variable
    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Balance Transfer Fee: Applies (check terms for specifics)

    Key Benefits:

    • 15 months 0% APR on purchases and transfers
    • No annual fee
    • Simple cash back rewards

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposit, or gift cards. It offers flexibility in how rewards are used.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Balance transfer fees apply, and the APR after the intro period can be high. Heavy users should plan to pay balances before the intro period ends.

    Why it Works for Beginners: The no-annual-fee structure and straightforward cash back make this card easy to manage. The long 0% APR period helps beginners save on interest while paying down debt.

  • Discover it® Chrome

    The Discover it® Chrome is a solid choice for people who want to pay down debt with low interest. It offers an 18-month 0% intro APR on balance transfers, giving users time to reduce balances without extra interest. The card also has a 0% intro APR on purchases for six months.

    This card focuses on balance transfers but provides some cash back rewards on everyday spending. It suits those who want to save on interest while earning rewards.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus

    • Discover matches all cash back earned at the end of the first year

    Card Details:

    • Intro APR on Balance Transfers: 0% for 18 months
    • Intro APR on Purchases: 0% for 6 months
    • Regular APR: 18.24% – 27.24% variable
    • Balance Transfer Fee: Up to 5% of the transfer amount

    Key Benefits:

    • Long 0% intro APR for balance transfers
    • Good cash back rates on gas and dining
    • 1% unlimited cash back on other purchases
    • Cashback match in the first year

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposit, or gift cards. There is no minimum redemption amount.

    Spending Limitations: The 5% balance transfer fee can add cost. Cash back rewards are modest compared to other cards.

    Why it Works for Beginners: The long no-interest period helps users reduce debt without pressure. The straightforward cash back rewards provide some extra value while managing balances.

  • Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

    The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card is built for those focused on eliminating debt rather than earning rewards. With a strong emphasis on balance transfers, this card is ideal for consolidating existing credit card balances and avoiding interest during a lengthy promotional period.

    Designed with debt reduction in mind, the card stands out for its simplicity and cost-saving focus. It’s a good fit for users who want a no-annual-fee option and aren’t concerned with cashback or travel perks.

    Welcome Bonus:

    • 0% APR on balance transfers for 21 months (transfers must be made within four months of account opening)
    • 0% APR on new purchases for 12 months

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Intro APR on Balance Transfers: 0% for 21 months (transfers must be made within 4 months of account opening)
    • Intro APR on Purchases: 0% for 12 months
    • Ongoing APR: 17.24% – 27.99% variable
    • Balance Transfer Fee: Typically 3% – 5% of the transfer amount

    Key Benefits:

    • Long 0% APR period on balance transfers
    • No annual fee
    • Helps reduce existing debt faster with less interest

    This card does not offer rewards or cashback. It is best for users focused solely on lowering interest costs.

    To qualify, applicants usually need good to excellent credit.

    Potential drawbacks include a balance transfer fee and a shorter 0% APR on purchases compared to transfers.

    It is a solid choice for beginners who want an easy-to-understand card focused on debt repayment without extra features or fees.

  • Blue Cash Everyday® Card From American Express

    The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is a no-annual-fee credit card designed for those who want to earn cash back while managing balances with a low introductory APR. It offers a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, making it easier to save on interest when paying down debt.

    This card appeals to users who want simple rewards on everyday spending without a fee. It is especially suited for moderate grocery and gas shoppers.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%)
    • 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
    • 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases
    • 1% cash back on other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    New cardholders can earn a $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in the first six months.

    Card Details:

    • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months
    • Variable APR after intro: 20.24% to 29.24%
    • No annual fee

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong cash back in everyday spending categories
    • No annual fee keeps costs low
    • Long 0% APR period helps with balance transfers
    • Easy-to-understand rewards program

    Spending Limitations and Potential Drawbacks:
    Cash back of 3% at supermarkets is capped at $6,000 in annual spending. After that, the rate drops to 1%. Variable APR can be high after the introductory period.

    Why It Works for Beginners:
    Its no-fee structure and straightforward rewards make it a good choice for beginners who want to save on interest and earn cash back on everyday purchases.

  • Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

    This card is ideal for users who want flexibility in how they earn cash back while managing debt through a 0% introductory APR. It offers a practical mix of interest savings and personalized rewards, making it a versatile choice for everyday spending and balance transfers.

    Its customizable cash back structure gives users control over their top earning category, which adds convenience without requiring constant tracking of rotating offers. This setup works well for cardholders with changing monthly expenses who also want to avoid interest charges during the promotional period.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3% cash back in a category of your choice (e.g., gas, online shopping, dining, or travel)
    • 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    New cardholders may get a welcome bonus of $200 after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.

    Card Details:

    • $0 annual fee
    • Intro APR 0% for 15 billing cycles (purchases and balance transfers)
    • Balance transfer fee applies (usually a percentage of the transfer amount)

    Key Benefits:

    • Flexible cash back categories
    • No annual fee
    • Preferred Rewards members earn higher cash back rates
    • Useful introductory APR offer

    Rewards can be redeemed as statement credits, checks, or deposits into a Bank of America® account.

    This card usually requires good to excellent credit. Cardholders with lower scores might face higher APR after the intro period.

    Potential drawbacks include a balance transfer fee and higher APR once the intro period ends. It works well for beginners who want straightforward rewards and a long 0% APR period to pay off balances.

  • TD FlexPay Credit Card

    The TD FlexPay Credit Card is built for those focused on managing credit card debt over time with less financial pressure. It provides a long interest-free period for balance transfers, making it useful for people looking to pay down existing balances without rushing repayment.

    What sets this card apart is its forgiveness feature, which allows one late fee to be waived per year. This added flexibility makes it easier for users to stay on track even if a payment is occasionally missed, supporting a smoother path toward financial stability.

    Earning Structure:
    This card does not focus on points or cashback rewards. Its main benefit is its long 0% balance transfer period.

    Card Details:

    • Intro APR on Balance Transfers: 0% for 18 billing cycles
    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Regular APR: 18.24% to 28.24% variable
    • Late Fee Forgiveness: One waived late fee per year

    Key Benefits:

    • Long 0% intro APR on balance transfers
    • No annual fee
    • One-time late fee forgiveness every year

    No points or cashback rewards are available for redemption since this card focuses on balance transfers. It requires good to excellent credit to qualify.

    Why It Works for Beginners: It works well for beginners because it helps build credit without fees and gives extra time to pay off existing balances without interest.

  • USAA Rate Advantage Credit Card

    The USAA Rate Advantage Credit Card is tailored for those who prioritize low borrowing costs over extra features. It’s a strong option for users focused purely on reducing interest charges while managing existing balances or upcoming expenses.

    Without the distractions of rewards programs or promotional bonuses, this card delivers straightforward value through a long intro APR period and competitive ongoing rates. It suits users who want to simplify their finances while keeping fees and interest to a minimum.

    Card Details:

    • Intro APR on Balance Transfers: 0% for 15 months
    • Regular APR: 11.15% – 25.15% variable
    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Foreign Transaction Fee: $0

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee keeps costs low.
    • No foreign transaction fees make it easier to use abroad.
    • Low introductory rate on balance transfers helps reduce interest charges.

    There are no rewards or cashback options to redeem. The card is designed mainly for balance transfers or low-cost borrowing.

    Credit approval generally requires a good credit score. High APR after the intro period may impact users who carry a balance long-term.

    Why It Works for Beginners: This card works well for beginners who want to lower interest on existing debt and avoid fees. It’s simple to understand without complicated rewards or extra costs.

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card From American Express

    This card is aimed at households that want to earn meaningful rewards from their everyday purchases while managing short-term expenses with a promotional APR. It’s a practical option for families who spend heavily in specific categories like groceries and gas.

    Instead of focusing solely on interest savings, this card combines useful cash-back opportunities with a manageable intro APR. It’s designed to deliver ongoing value to users who prefer to keep using their card while gradually paying down balances.

    Earning Structure:

    • 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 spent per year)
    • 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and select U.S. streaming services
    • 1% cash back on other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    • Earn a $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months

    Card Details:

    • Intro APR: 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
    • Regular APR: 20.24% – 29.24% variable
    • Annual Fee: $95

    Key Benefits:

    • High cash-back rates on key spending categories
    • Long 0% APR period for balance transfers and purchases
    • No foreign transaction fees

    Redemption Options:
    Cash back is redeemed as a statement credit, which helps pay down the balance directly.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit is usually needed to qualify.

    Spending Limitations/Potential Drawbacks:
    The 6% cash back applies only to the first $6,000 spent annually at supermarkets. The $95 annual fee may not be ideal for light spenders.

    Why it Works for Beginners: The long 0% APR period is good for those new to credit cards who want to pay off balances without interest. The simple cash-back system makes it easy to earn and redeem rewards.

  • Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

    The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers a practical solution for users who want to manage existing debt while earning consistent value on new purchases. It appeals to those looking for a balance between simple rewards and short-term interest savings.

    Its no-fuss structure makes it suitable for people who prefer a card that delivers value with every transaction—without worrying about rotating categories or complex redemption rules. It’s a strong choice for users who want steady cashback as they pay down balances.

    Earning Structure

    • 2% cash back on every purchase, with no category limits

    Welcome Bonus

    • Earn $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Intro APR on Purchases: 0% for 15 months
    • Intro APR on Balance Transfers: 0% for 15 months
    • Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 3% of the amount transferred (whichever is greater during the intro period), then $5 or 5% afterward

    Key Benefits:

    • Flat 2% cash back on all spending
    • No annual fee
    • Introductory 0% APR on purchases and transfers helps save on interest

    Redemption Options:
    Cash rewards can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, or used for gift cards and travel purchases.

    Spending Limitations/Potential Drawbacks:
    Balance transfers carry a fee, which rises after the introductory period ends. The unlimited 2% cash back may be less competitive than higher-rate tiered cards in specific categories.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    The card’s simplicity makes it easy to understand and use. The 0% APR period offers breathing room for those managing existing debt, while cash back rewards grow steadily without category tracking.

  • U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card

    The U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card is built for those who need extended time to manage existing balances or upcoming expenses without interest. It’s especially helpful for users who want to prioritize debt payoff over rewards or extra features.

    This card keeps things straightforward by offering one of the longest intro APR periods available. It’s best suited for individuals focused on interest relief rather than earning points, making it a dependable option for financial breathing room.

    Card Details:

    • Intro APR on Balance Transfers: 0% for 24 months
    • Intro APR on Purchases: 0% for 24 months
    • Standard APR: 17.74% – 28.74% variable
    • Balance Transfer Fee: 5% (minimum $5)
    • Welcome Bonus: None
    • Credit Score Needed: Good to excellent

    Key Benefits:

    • Long 0% intro APR period on balance transfers and purchases
    • Helps reduce interest costs on existing debt
    • Simple, straightforward terms without rewards complexity

    There is a 5% balance transfer fee, with a minimum fee of $5, which can add to the cost of moving debt. This card does not offer any welcome bonuses or rewards, so it’s best for users focused mainly on lowering interest.

    Why it Works for Beginners: It works well for beginners who want a clear, no-frills way to handle credit card debt. The long interest-free period gives time to pay down balances with less pressure.

  • Citi Simplicity® Card

    The Citi Simplicity® Card is designed for people who want a no-frills way to manage debt without worrying about added costs or penalties. Its primary focus is giving cardholders extra time to pay off balances without interest, making it a useful tool for reducing high-interest debt.

    This card avoids the complexity of rewards programs and instead emphasizes straightforward terms. It’s a good fit for users who prefer predictable payments and value features that help prevent late fees and interest spikes.

    Card Details:

    • 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months
    • 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months
    • Balance transfer fee: greater of $5 or 3%
    • No annual fee

    Key Benefits:

    • One of the longest 0% balance transfer periods available
    • No late fees or penalty rate increases
    • Simple, straightforward terms without rewards distractions

    This card does not have a welcome bonus or rewards to redeem. It is designed mainly for reducing debt faster.

    The Citi Simplicity® Card generally requires good to excellent credit. Some users may find the lack of rewards a drawback if they want to earn points or cashback.

    Why it Works for Beginners: It works well for beginners because it focuses on avoiding interest and fees. This makes it easier to manage payments and pay off balances efficiently.

  • BankAmericard® Credit Card

    The BankAmericard® Credit Card is geared toward users who want to reduce existing credit card debt without distractions like rewards or bonus offers. It focuses on helping cardholders save on interest, especially during the early stages of repayment.

    By keeping its features minimal, this card is ideal for people looking for a reliable way to consolidate balances. Its straightforward structure makes it easy to manage without navigating complex perks or promotional extras.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Intro APR: 0% for 18 billing cycles on balance transfers made within the first 60 days
    • Balance Transfer Fee: 3% of each transfer amount
    • Regular APR: 15.24% – 25.24% variable

    Key Benefits:

    • Long intro period for balance transfers
    • No annual fee
    • 0% APR on purchases for 18 billing cycles
    • Helps reduce interest costs on existing debt

    There is no earning structure or welcome bonus with this card. It suits people who want a simple way to consolidate debts rather than earn rewards.

    The card requires good to excellent credit for approval. It may not be ideal for those looking for cashback or travel points.

    Why it Works for Beginners: It works well for beginners because of its straightforward terms and long 0% APR offer. It helps new credit users save money while paying down balances without added fees or complex rewards.

  • Skyla Visa Platinum Credit Card

    The Skyla Visa Platinum Credit Card offers a simple path to debt management with fewer fees and minimal complexity. It’s designed to help users pay down balances without interest early on, while also providing straightforward approval and account setup.

    This card stands out by eliminating common costs like balance transfer and cash advance fees. It’s a suitable option for people seeking basic credit support without the distraction of tiered rewards or high-cost terms.

    Earning Structure:

    The Skyla Platinum Rewards version offers double rewards points on all purchases through June 30. Points accumulate on every dollar spent without limits during this period.

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 10,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Intro APR on Balance Transfers: 0% for 12 months
    • Balance Transfer Fee: $0
    • Rewards: Double points on all purchases through June 30

    Key Benefits:

    • No fees on balance transfers or cash advances
    • Flexible credit limits
    • Easy application process that opens an account automatically

    Rewards points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Points have flexible use but no expiration if the account is active.

    Applicants typically need fair to good credit. TransUnion is the main credit bureau used for approval.

    Spending Limitations/Potential Drawbacks:

    No long-term rewards beyond June 30 unless the rewards card is used. The 0% APR offer lasts only 12 months, after which the regular APR applies.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The lack of fees and simple rewards make it easy for beginners to use. The card helps manage debt with a good intro APR and guided application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right balance transfer card depends on factors like no-interest period length, credit score requirements, fees, and rewards. Some cards offer long zero-interest periods, while others cater to fair credit or combine rewards with balance transfers. Finding cards with no transfer fees or top picks for 2025 can make paying down debt easier.

What are the top balance transfer credit cards with the longest no-interest periods currently available?

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card offers one of the longest 0% intro APR periods on balance transfers, lasting up to 21 months. It helps users save on interest while paying down debt.

  • No rewards program
  • 0% APR on balance transfers for 21 months
  • Balance transfer fee of 5% or $5 minimum
  • Requires good to excellent credit
  • No annual fee

It works for beginners by giving long relief from interest, allowing more time to reduce debt without extra costs.

Which balance transfer cards offer the best terms for individuals with fair credit?

Most of the top balance transfer cards are designed for people with good to excellent credit. However, the Skyla Visa Platinum Credit Card is a more accessible option that may work for applicants with fair to good credit. It offers 0% APR on balance transfers for 12 months, no balance transfer fee, and no annual fee.

While it doesn’t provide long-term rewards, its flexible credit limits and simple terms make it a practical choice for those looking to reduce interest charges while improving their credit standing.

How can I find a balance transfer card that does not charge a transfer fee?

The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card occasionally offers no balance transfer fees during its intro period, alongside a long 0% APR.

  • 0% APR on balance transfers up to 21 months
  • No balance transfer fee if balance is transferred within 120 days of account opening
  • Requires good credit
  • No rewards program
  • No annual fee

Its no-fee balance transfer offer combined with an extended 0% APR is useful for those looking to avoid extra charges.

Are there any balance transfer credit cards that offer rewards as well as no-interest periods?

Yes. The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers a rare mix of straightforward rewards and an introductory 0% APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. Cardholders earn 2% cash back on all purchases, with no category tracking or caps.

This combination of flat-rate rewards, no annual fee, and interest-free flexibility makes it a solid option for those who want to manage debt while continuing to earn consistent cash back.

What are the most recommended balance transfer cards?

Some of the most recommended balance transfer cards combine long 0% APR offers with low fees and simple terms. The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card and the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card both offer up to 21 months of 0% intro APR on balance transfers, making them excellent for extended debt repayment.

For those who want rewards too, the Citi Double Cash® Card stands out with 18 months of 0% intro APR and 2% cash back on all purchases—1% when you buy, 1% when you pay.