Best Balance Transfer Cards of 2025

Carrying credit card debt can be overwhelming, especially when high interest rates eat away at your payments. Balance transfer credit cards are a lifesaver, offering 0% introductory APR periods and low fees to help you pay down debt faster. In this guide, we’ll explore the best balance transfer cards of 2025, breaking down features like APR offers, annual fees, and rewards to help you make an informed decision.

What are Balance Transfer Cards?

A balance transfer credit card allows you to move an existing balance from one or more credit cards to a new card, usually with a lower interest rate. Many balance transfer cards offer a 0% introductory APR for a set period, such as 12, 18, or even 21 months.

Here’s how it works:

1. Apply for a balance transfer card with favorable terms.
2. Request a transfer of your existing balance(s) to the new card, either during the application process or after approval.
3. Pay off your balance within the introductory period to avoid interest charges.

Not only can this save you money, but it also simplifies your finances by consolidating debt into a single monthly payment.

Why Consider a Balance Transfer Card?

Balance transfer cards allow you to move debt from high-interest credit cards to one with a lower or 0% introductory APR. This can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in interest while simplifying your monthly payments.

Balance transfer cards are an excellent financial tool for anyone dealing with high-interest credit card debt. Here are some compelling reasons to consider one:

1. Save on Interest

Credit card interest rates can exceed 20%, which significantly slows your progress in paying down debt. With a balance transfer card offering 0% APR, you can allocate every dollar of your payment toward the principal, accelerating debt payoff.

2. Simplify Payments

Consolidating multiple credit card balances into one card means fewer due dates to track and easier financial management.

3. Pay Off Debt Faster

When you’re not paying interest, your payments directly reduce your debt, helping you become debt-free sooner.

4. Improve Financial Health

Paying off debt faster can positively impact your credit score by reducing your credit utilization ratio, one of the factors that determine your credit score.

Things to Consider Before Applying for a Balance Transfer Card

While balance transfer cards offer great benefits, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Balance Transfer Fees

Most cards charge a balance transfer fee, typically 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. For example, transferring $5,000 at a 3% fee will cost $150 upfront. Ensure the savings outweigh the cost.

2. Introductory Period

Look for cards with the longest 0% APR period to give yourself ample time to pay off your balance.

3. Credit Score Requirements

Balance transfer cards often require good to excellent credit (a FICO score of 670 or higher). Check your credit score before applying.

4. Post-Introductory APR

Once the introductory period ends, the regular APR applies. Make sure you can pay off your balance before this kicks in.

5. Transfer Limit

Some cards cap the amount you can transfer. Verify that the card’s limit accommodates your needs.

Wallet Monkey’s Best Balance Transfer Cards for 2025

1. Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

• Intro APR: 0% for 21 months on balance transfers (and 12 months on purchases)
• Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 5%, whichever is greater
• Annual Fee: $0
• Why We Like It: Longest intro APR period makes it ideal for large balances.

2. Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

• Intro APR: Up to 21 months with 0% on purchases and balance transfers
• Balance Transfer Fee: 3% for the first 120 days, then 5%
• Annual Fee: $0
• Why We Like It: Offers the longest overall duration with responsible use.

3. BankAmericard® Credit Card

• Intro APR: 0% for 18 months on balance transfers and purchases
• Balance Transfer Fee: $10 or 3%, whichever is greater
• Annual Fee: $0
• Why We Like It: No annual fee and straightforward terms.

4. Chase Slate Edge℠

• Intro APR: 0% for 18 months on balance transfers
• Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 3%, whichever is greater
• Annual Fee: $0
• Why We Like It: Includes a credit line increase review after six months.

5. Discover it® Balance Transfer

• Intro APR: 0% for 18 months on balance transfers (and 6 months on purchases)
• Balance Transfer Fee: 3% for introductory transfers, then 5%
• Annual Fee: $0
• Why We Like It: Cashback rewards even during the balance transfer period.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)