Top Balance Transfer Cards This Week: Get Up to 21 Months to Cut Debt Faster

When interest rates hover near 21%, every month you delay can make your financial situation harder. Your payments may feel like they are going nowhere because so little is reducing the principal.

A balance transfer card can break that cycle. With as much as 21 months of 0% introductory APR, more of your payment can go toward eliminating debt instead of covering interest. Many of these cards also have no annual fee, and some even offer cash back rewards. That stretch of time can make it much easier to gain momentum and start breathing again.

If you want a way to feel more in control, these are the best balance transfer cards to consider this week.

What to know before you apply for a balance transfer card

Used wisely, balance transfer cards can be an effective way to pay down debt. Before applying, keep these important points in mind:

Strong credit improves your odds

Most balance transfer cards are aimed at applicants with a FICO® Score of 670 or above. Even so, issuers also look at your income, debt load, and overall credit history, so approval may still be possible with a lower score.

Try to pay off the balance before the 0% period ends

The interest-free period does not last forever. After it ends, any remaining balance begins accruing interest at the card's regular APR, which is often above 20%. To make the most of a transfer:

• Choose a card with a 0% intro APR period long enough to pay down your debt
• Set up a plan to eliminate the balance within that window
• Avoid adding new purchases that could slow your progress

You generally cannot move balances between cards from the same issuer

Trying to transfer a Chase balance to another Chase card usually will not work. Card companies offer balance transfers to win new customers, not to shift debt between their own products.

Missing a payment can end the promotional APR

Even during the intro period, you still need to make at least the minimum monthly payment. If you miss one, the promotional rate could disappear and the regular APR, or even a penalty APR, may apply, which could erase your savings.

Make the most of 0% APR and put debt behind you

With the right balance transfer card, you could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in interest. If you are ready to take on debt more aggressively, now may be a smart time to act. Apply for one of the top cards featured here or explore more balance transfer options.