Finances
What is a balance transfer credit card?
Savings may be substantial if high-interest debt was transferred to a credit card with a 0% introductory APR.
Advertisement
Discover all you need to know below
It is possible to transfer outstanding debt from one account to another. Learn more about what is a balance transfer credit card.
Does an overdraft affect your credit score?
Check now if overdrafting can affect your credit history. We'll explain everythin you need! So stick with us and learn more!
Transferring high-interest debt to a credit card with a 0% introductory APR might result in significant savings.
What does Balance Transfer mean? Why should I do One?
The term “balance transfer” refers to a specific sort of credit card transaction in which existing debt is transferred to a new cardholder account.
Paying down high-interest debt in this way can result in significant interest savings.
One possible interest-free repayment strategy involves transferring debt to a credit card that offers a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers.
However, there are fees and restrictions associated with transferring a balance. A balance transfer fee is typically assessed, ranging from three percent to five percent of the amount transferred.
Furthermore, you may not be able to transfer your entire sum if the limit on your balance transfer card is low.
You will be redirected to another website
The Process of a Balance Transfer: How does it work?
Now that you have learned what a balance transfer credit card is let’s look into the procedure to make one.
- Step 1: Cet a new card that offers a 0% introductory APR on balance transfer. Or, use an existing offer on a card you currently have. Institutions usually require Good or exceptional credit (usually, a FICO score of at least 690);
- Step 2: Start the remittance process. Give details about the debt you wish to transfer, including the issuer’s name, the debt’s amount, and the account details, if you choose to do this online or over the phone;
- Step 3: Overall, give the money time to transfer. After the issuer approves the balance transfer, they typically pay straight to your old account to settle any outstanding balance. Your new account will reflect your previous balance plus the applicable balance transfer fee.
Lastly, settle the debt. After transferring the balance to the new card, you must start making monthly payments.
You can save Money by paying it off within the initial 0% APR period.
How to Choose the Right Balance Transfer Credit Card
As previously stated, Money can be saved through balance transfers. Let’s pretend you carry a $5,000 balance on a credit card with a 20% APR.
However, there are a plethora of nuances and expenses that come with such moves.
For example, if you want to preserve your 0% APR promotion after the transfer, you must make your minimum monthly payment on time each month.
Also, keep an eye on the APR. Is the new card’s regular interest rate higher than the rate at which your existing amount is accruing interest?
The perfect credit card debt transfer would have three large zeros:
- Balance transfers are eligible for an initial 0% APR.
- Costing $0 yearly to use.
- A balance transfer costs zero dollars or the ability to avoid paying one.
Minimum credit score for a mortgage in the UK
When you apply for credit, the lender checks your credit score. Keep reading and learn more about this big financial step! Read on!
Are There Other Options?
Credit card balance transfers may be worthwhile, according to the opinions of some financial experts.
However, only if you can pay the transferred debt in full during the introductory APR period.
If the cardholder anticipates a high-interest rate on their amount once the promotional period ends, they would be better off getting a personal loan.
It typically has rates that are either lower, fixed, or both.
However, if the institution requires collateral for the personal loan, the customer may feel uneasy doing so.
Made the balance transfer: what should I do now?
To make sure the balance transfer works for you, here’s what you should do:
Don’t go crazy with your new credit card.
You may be subject to a different interest rate on purchases made immediately using your new credit card.
The buy rate’ is an interest rate that is typically substantially greater than the balance transfer rate.
Reduce your outgoings and prioritize paying down the balance.
Deactivate your current card.
It is important to terminate your previous card before transferring a balance. That way, you can resist the need to rack up more debt.
Preserving Your Credit Rating
Credit card balance transfers and new credit card applications both show up on a consumer’s credit report.
Multiple applications in a short period of time can have a negative impact on your credit score.
You should probably try to pay off your credit card instead of transferring the balance again if you have already done so in the past.
Controlling your financial life and learning more about finances can be a helping tool through this journey. Keep an eye on OK Save Money content and get the best tips!
What is the average credit score in the UK?
The average credit score in the UK is difficult to determine because there are several indicators used to assess a person's credit rating. Learn more below!
About the author / Giovanna Klein
Trending Topics
TSB Platinum Balance Transfer Card review: No annual fee!
Discover the pros and cons of the TSB Platinum Balance Transfer Card in our review. Uncover its impressive 0% interest period and more!
Keep ReadingFluid Credit Card review: No annual fee!
Discover the Fluid Credit Card: Our review breaks down its 0% balance transfer offer, flexible payment options, and variable APR rates!
Keep ReadingApply for Capital One Balance Transfer Card: 0% intro interest
Discover a simple guide to learn how to apply for the Capital One Balance Transfer Card! No annual fee and amazing benefits! Read on!
Keep ReadingYou may also like
Koyo Personal Loans review: up to £12,000
Discover how Koyo can help you access fast and reliable funding in the UK. Read our Koyo Personal Loans full review.
Keep ReadingCapital One Balance Transfer Card review: No annual fee!
Discover in the Capital One Balance Transfer Card review if this is your ticket to managing debts efficiently! 0% intro interest!
Keep ReadingMinty Personal Loans: all you need to apply
Are you looking for an easy application and no additional costs? Learn how to apply for Minty Personal Loans! Up to £3,000!
Keep Reading