Best Credit Card Balance Transfer Rate: It Pays To Shop Around

Posted by Nick Niesen on October 29th, 2010

Smart shopping for 0% APR credit cards can save consumers hundreds of dollars in interest charges. Many consumers do not think to shop around for credit cards. However, with 60 percent of grocery store purchases being made with credit cards, the decision as to which card the consumer uses can have an impact on how much is paid in interest. One way you can save money in interest charges is to shop around for a 0% APR credit card to transfer existing balances to. The concept of shopping for the best interest rates is not new for purchases such as homes and cars, but so few consumers stop to think about shopping around for the best credit card deal.

0% APR credit cards save consumers money

It is possible for you to save hundreds of dollars a year by transferring balances to a 0% APR credit card. Here is how it works: A consumer applies for a new credit card with a special introductory interest rate of 0% APR for balance transfers. After gaining approval, the consumer transfers the balance of his or her credit cards to the new card. Some companies may waive the balance transfer fee, but a standard fee is usually a small percentage of the transferred balance. Whether the old card has a low 8.9% APR, or whether it has a higher 15.9% APR, the potential savings are well worth the transfer. For the entire introductory period (usually 6 to 12 months) it is possible for consumers to avoid paying interest on their credit card debt.

Sorting through 0% APR credit card deals

Some web sites provide you with an objective way to look at credit card offers. It is even possible to use a calculator to figure out how much you can save by transferring balances to a 0% APR credit card. Consumers receive the information they need to help them decide on the credit card balance transfer offer that works best for them. Objective side-by-side comparisons allow a more complete picture of available credit cards. When you find a card that you like, it is also possible to apply for that card instantly from the web site. Helpful links to the credit card companies allow you to receive instant approval on their credit cards.

A word of caution

A 0% APR credit card balance transfer is a financial tool that can greatly benefit consumers. However, as with all financial tools, it is important to use it wisely. Consumers should be aware that failure to pay at least the minimum payment on time can result in an immediate end to the introductory period. Many credit cards, however, provide an automatic debit system or an online bill pay option. This can help consumers set up automatic payments that ensure that there are no late payments.

Shopping around for the best bargain is a way of life for many. Applying that rule to credit card applications can mean that you get to keep more of your hard earned cash.