11 Best Credit Cards for Long 0% APR Balance Transfers

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated October 3, 2025

Finding the right balance transfer credit card can make paying off debt more manageable and less costly. The best options offer long 0% APR periods, giving cardholders time to reduce balances without added interest. This guide highlights 11 strong choices, each with features that can help different financial situations.

  • Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

    The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card focuses on helping cardholders manage balances without paying interest for an extended time. It is designed for people who want to pay down debt or spread out payments on large purchases.

    This card does not earn rewards, which makes it different from many other options. Instead, it stands out for its long introductory 0% APR period on both purchases and balance transfers.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not offer rewards or cash back.

    Welcome Bonus:

    The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card does not include a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR for up to 21 months, then 17.24%, 23.74%, or 28.99% variable applies after
    • Other benefits: Access to cell phone protection when paying the bill with the card
    • Network: Visa
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 5% (minimum $5)

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Long 0% intro APR period for purchases and balance transfers
    • Cell phone protection included
    • Flexibility to pay down debt without interest charges

    Redemption Options:

    Since the card does not earn rewards, there are no redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score starting at 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not earn rewards and charges foreign transaction fees, making it less useful for international travel.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It gives new cardholders extra time to pay off balances without interest, which makes it easier to manage debt responsibly.

  • Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

    The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card focuses on offering one of the longest 0% intro APR periods for balance transfers. This makes it a practical option for people who want extra time to pay down existing debt.

    It does not emphasize rewards or cash back but instead centers on interest savings. The card is built for those who value straightforward debt management over earning points.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not earn points, miles, or cash back.

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers; 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases; then 17.24%–27.99% variable applies
    • Other benefits: Access to Citi Entertainment presale tickets and events
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Balance transfer credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 5% of each transfer (minimum $5)

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Extra-long 0% intro APR for balance transfers
    • Intro APR on purchases for a limited time
    • Access to Citi Entertainment program
    • Widely accepted Mastercard network

    Redemption Options:

    This card does not provide rewards, so there are no redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, often a score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The lack of rewards and foreign transaction fees may limit its appeal for everyday spending or travel.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple structure with no annual fee, making it easy for beginners to manage while focusing on paying down debt.

  • Citi Simplicity® Card

    The Citi Simplicity® Card focuses on providing a long introductory period for balance transfers. It is designed for people who want extra time to pay down debt without interest charges.

    This card does not include complex rewards or earning structures. Instead, it keeps things simple for users who want straightforward terms.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not earn rewards, points, or cash back.

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months; 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; after that, variable APR of 18.24%–28.99% applies
    • Other benefits: No late fees, no penalty APR
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Balance transfer / low-interest credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 5% of each transfer, minimum $5

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Long 0% intro APR for balance transfers
    • Intro 0% APR on purchases
    • No late fees charged
    • No penalty APR applied after missed payments

    Redemption Options:

    Since this card does not earn rewards, there are no redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, often starting around a FICO score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not provide rewards or cash back, and it charges a 3% foreign transaction fee.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple terms and lack of penalty fees make it easy for new cardholders to manage.

  • Citi Double Cash® Card

    The Citi Double Cash® Card is a straightforward cash back card that also offers a long 0% intro APR on balance transfers. It is designed for people who want both debt management tools and simple rewards.

    Cardholders can earn rewards on every purchase while taking advantage of the balance transfer period. Its structure makes it useful for both everyday spending and paying down existing balances.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1% cash back when making a purchase
    • 1% cash back when paying off that purchase

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 within the first six months of joining.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months, then 18.24%–28.24% variable
    • Balance transfer fee: 5% of each transfer, minimum $5
    • Other benefits: Basic Mastercard protections
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Cash back credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Simple flat cash back system
    • Long 0% intro APR on balance transfers
    • Rewards earned on both spending and repayment

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, or checks.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, often a FICO score of 670–739.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not offer bonus categories or travel perks, and it charges foreign transaction fees.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple rewards system and no annual fee make it easy for new cardholders to manage and understand.

  • BankAmericard® Credit Card

    The BankAmericard® credit card focuses on helping cardholders manage debt with a long 0% intro APR period. It is designed for people who want to pay down balances without adding interest charges.

    This card does not emphasize rewards or perks. Instead, it provides a straightforward way to save on interest during the promotional period.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not earn rewards, points, or cash back.

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% introductory APR for 18 billing cycles, then a variable APR of 15.24%–25.24% applies
    • Other benefits: Free FICO® Score access, fraud protection
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 3% of each transfer (minimum $10)

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Long 0% intro APR period
    • Useful for balance transfers or large purchases
    • Access to online and mobile banking tools

    Redemption Options:

    Since the card does not earn rewards, there are no redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit (FICO score of at least 670) to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The lack of rewards and the foreign transaction fee limit the card’s usefulness for everyday spending or travel.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It works well for beginners who want a simple card to pay off debt without worrying about interest or complex rewards programs.

  • BankAmericard® Credit Card For Students

    The BankAmericard® Credit Card for Students is designed for those who want to manage balances while building credit history. It offers an extended 0% intro APR period, making it useful for paying down debt or financing purchases.

    This card keeps things simple without adding complicated rewards programs. Students can focus on responsible use and timely payments while taking advantage of interest-free financing.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not earn rewards on purchases.

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 18 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers, followed by a 15.24% to 25.24% variable APR
    • Other benefits: Access to FICO® Score, fraud protection, account alerts
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Student credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 3% of each transaction (minimum $10)

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Long 0% intro APR period
    • Useful for balance transfers
    • Tools to track and build credit
    • Fraud protection features

    Redemption Options:

    This card does not offer points or cash back, so there are no redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of 670 or higher, to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The lack of rewards and foreign transaction fees may limit its value for frequent travelers.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It gives students a straightforward way to build credit while avoiding interest during the intro period.

  • Chase Slate Edge®

    The Chase Slate Edge® is a straightforward credit card designed for people who want to manage debt through balance transfers. It focuses on offering a lengthy 0% intro APR period, making it useful for paying down balances without interest.

    This card lacks several additional features besides its promotional APR period. It is best suited for people who value simplicity over rewards or premium perks.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not earn rewards on purchases.

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 18 months, followed by a variable rate of 18.99%–28.99%
    • Other benefits: Potential APR reduction with on-time payments and responsible use
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 3% during intro period, then 5% after

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Long 0% intro APR period for balance transfers and purchases
    • Chance to lower APR with responsible use
    • Easy to manage with few extra features

    Redemption Options:

    Since this card does not earn rewards, there are no redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good credit (FICO score of 670 or higher) to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not provide ongoing rewards or travel perks, and foreign purchases include a fee.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple structure with no annual fee and a long 0% intro APR, making it easier for beginners to manage balances.

  • TD FlexPay Credit Card

    The TD FlexPay Credit Card focuses on flexibility for people who need extra time to manage payments. It offers a long 0% intro APR period for balance transfers, which helps reduce interest costs.

    This card also includes a unique perk: the ability to get one late fee refunded per year. That feature can provide a safety net for cardholders who miss a due date.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not focus on rewards earning.
    • It is designed mainly for balance transfers and payment flexibility.

    Welcome Bonus:

    The TD FlexPay Credit Card does not currently advertise a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 billing cycles, then 18.24%–28.24% variable applies
    • Other benefits: One late fee refund per year
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 3% during intro period, then 5% after
    • Additional features: Digital account management tools

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Introductory 0% APR for balance transfers
    • Refund of one late fee per year
    • Wide acceptance through the Visa network

    Redemption Options:

    This card does not focus on rewards, so redemption options are not offered.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of at least 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not earn rewards, which limits long-term value for everyday spending.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It helps new cardholders manage balances without interest while offering forgiveness for one late payment.

  • State Farm Good Neighbor Visa® Card

    The State Farm Good Neighbor Visa® Card is designed for people who want to manage debt with a long 0% intro APR period. It focuses on giving cardholders extra time to pay down balances without interest.

    This card also provides flexibility for purchases and balance transfers. It works well for those who want simple terms without complex reward structures.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not focus on rewards earning.

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card does not currently advertise a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 18 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers, then 18.24%–28.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Basic purchase protection and Visa benefits
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 5% of each transfer, minimum $5

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Long 0% intro APR period on purchases and transfers
    • Accepted worldwide through Visa’s network
    • Simple terms without complicated rewards
    • Useful for consolidating higher-interest debt

    Redemption Options:

    This card does not provide points or cash back redemption since it is not a rewards-focused product.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit (FICO score of at least 670) to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The lack of rewards and foreign transaction fees limit its value for frequent travelers.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its straightforward design and no annual fee make it easy for new cardholders to manage.

  • NEA RateSmart® Credit Card

    The NEA RateSmart® Credit Card is designed for those who want to manage balances without paying interest for an extended time. It offers a lengthy 0% introductory APR period on both purchases and balance transfers.

    This card focuses on simplicity rather than rewards. It can be a practical option for cardholders who value interest savings over earning points or cash back.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not offer points, miles, or cash back rewards.

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 18 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers made within 60 days; then 14.24%–24.24% variable APR applies
    • Other benefits: Access to online account management and mobile banking
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Balance transfer / low-interest card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 3% during intro period, then 4% after

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Long 0% intro APR period for purchases and transfers
    • Flexible balance transfer window
    • Backed by a major network for broad acceptance

    Redemption Options:

    Since the card does not earn rewards, there are no redemption options available.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need fair to good credit to qualify, which means a FICO score of 580–669.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The lack of rewards and foreign transaction fees may limit its usefulness for frequent travelers.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides a straightforward way to pay off balances over time without worrying about interest charges.

  • U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card

    The U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card focuses on helping cardholders manage balances and new purchases without interest for an extended time. It is designed for people who want a long-term 0% APR period rather than ongoing rewards.

    This card stands out for its unusually long introductory APR offer. It provides flexibility for those planning large expenses or consolidating debt.

    Earning Structure:

    • 4% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and rental car reservations booked through the Rewards Travel Center

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card does not provide a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles; then 17.74%–28.74% variable applies
    • Other benefits: Fraud protection, digital wallet compatibility
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Consumer credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Balance transfer fee: 3% during intro period, then 5% after

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Long 0% intro APR period
    • Useful for balance transfers and large purchases
    • Wide Visa acceptance worldwide

    Redemption Options:

    This card does not earn rewards, so there are no redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, often with a FICO score of at least 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The lack of rewards and a welcome bonus may limit long-term value once the intro APR period ends.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple structure with no rewards to track, making it easy for beginners to focus on managing balances responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key factors to consider when choosing a balance transfer credit card?

The length of the 0% APR period is one of the most important factors. Applicants should compare balance transfer fees, the ongoing APR after the introductory period, and any additional benefits of the card. The credit requirement for approval also plays a major role in eligibility.

What is the best way to take advantage of 0% APR balance transfer cards while avoiding hidden costs?

To maximize a balance transfer card, pay off your balance during the introductory period before the regular APR starts. Always check for transfer fees, which typically range from 3% to 5%, since these can add to the cost. It is also important to make on-time payments, as late fees or penalties can cancel the 0% APR offer.

What happens if the balance is not fully paid before the 0% APR period ends?

Once the 0% APR period expires, any remaining balance begins accruing interest at the card’s regular variable rate. This rate is often much higher than promotional offers, which can make debt harder to manage. To avoid costly charges, aim to pay down as much of the balance as possible before the intro period ends.

What are the alternatives if you do not qualify for a 0% balance transfer credit card?

A lower ongoing APR card can still save money by reducing interest on balances. You could also use a debt consolidation loan, which replaces high-interest debt with fixed payments. If credit is a concern, an accredited debt management company may provide structured repayment help.

How do balance transfer credit cards affect your credit score?

Applying for a balance transfer credit card generally results in a hard inquiry, which may cause a slight and temporary drop in your credit score. Transferring balances and reducing utilization can enhance your credit over time. However, carrying high balances or missing payments can negatively impact your score.