A zero-interest credit card can be a powerful financial tool. It allows you to make large purchases or consolidate existing debt without accumulating interest for a set period. This 0% intro APR credit cards (0% Annual Percentage Rate) offer means your payments go directly toward the principal balance, helping you pay it off faster.
This guide will walk you through the best 0% intro APR credit cards available today. We’ll compare their features, including the length of the introductory period, balance transfer fees, and any rewards programs.
By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which card can best help you manage your finances and achieve your goals, whether that’s paying down debt or financing a significant expense.
Top 0% Intro APR Credit Cards for Balance Transfers
If your primary goal is to pay off existing credit card debt, a balance transfer card is an excellent choice. These cards offer a 0% intro APR on balances you move from other cards, giving you a window to pay down your debt interest-free.
Look for a card with a long introductory period and a low balance transfer fee to maximize your savings.
Citi Simplicity® Card
The Citi Simplicity® Card stands out for its exceptionally long introductory period for balance transfers. It offers a 0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers completed within the first four months. For purchases, the intro period is 12 months.
This extended timeframe gives you a significant advantage when trying to eliminate high-interest debt.
- Regular APR: 17.99% – 28.74% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% intro fee (minimum $5) for transfers in the first 4 months, then 5% (minimum $5).
- Annual Fee: $0
- Best For: Individuals who need the maximum amount of time to pay off a transferred balance without the distraction of a rewards program.
Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card is another top contender, matching Citi’s long intro period. It provides a 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on both purchases and qualifying balance transfers. To qualify, transfers must be made within the first 120 days.
A unique perk is the included cell phone protection, which covers your phone against damage or theft for up to $600 (subject to a $25 deductible) when you pay your monthly bill with the card.
- Regular APR: 17.99% – 28.74% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee: 5% (minimum $5)
- Annual Fee: $0
- Best For: Users who want a long intro APR for both new purchases and balance transfers, with the added benefit of cell phone insurance.
U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card
This card boasts the longest introductory APR period currently on the market. It offers an impressive 0% intro APR for 24 billing cycles on both purchases and eligible balance transfers made within 60 days of account opening.
While it doesn’t have a robust rewards program, it provides some useful perks like an annual statement credit and cell phone protection, making it a strong choice for debt management.
- Regular APR: 17.74% – 28.74% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee: 5% (minimum $5)
- Annual Fee: $0
- Best For: People who need the absolute longest interest-free period to pay off a large balance or finance a major purchase.
Top 0% Intro APR Cards with Rewards
Why not earn rewards while enjoying an interest-free period? Some cards offer both a 0% intro APR and a cash back or points program.
These are ideal if you plan to make new purchases and want to get something back for your spending. Just be sure you can pay off the balance before the intro period ends to avoid high interest rates negating your rewards.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a favorite for its straightforward and generous rewards structure. You earn an unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases.
The card also features a 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers (made within 120 days). This combination makes it a versatile tool for both earning rewards and managing short-term financing.
- Regular APR: 18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% intro fee for 120 days, then up to 5% (minimum $5).
- Annual Fee: $0
- Best For: Everyday spending, thanks to its flat-rate 2% cash rewards on every purchase.
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
If your spending is concentrated on dining, entertainment, and groceries, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards card is hard to beat. It offers a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Its rewards structure is exceptional, offering 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment, 5% on travel booked through Capital One, and 3% on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores. All other purchases earn 1%.
- Regular APR: 18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% for the first 12 months.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Best For: Foodies and entertainment lovers who can maximize the high cash back rates in specific categories.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a great mix of rewards and a solid introductory APR. You get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers.
The rewards program is also compelling, providing at least 1.5% cash back on all purchases. You can earn even more in specific categories, making it a well-rounded option for daily use.
- Regular APR: 18.74% – 28.24% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% intro fee ($5 minimum) for the first 60 days, then 5% ($5 minimum).
- Annual Fee: $0
- Best For: Individuals looking for a flexible rewards card with a longer-than-average intro APR period for new purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a 0% intro APR?
A 0% introductory APR is a promotional period during which a credit card issuer charges no interest on your balance. This offer can apply to new purchases, balance transfers, or both.
The period typically lasts from 12 to 21 months. After it ends, the standard variable APR applies to any remaining balance.
Is a 0% intro APR card a good idea?
Yes, it can be a very good idea if used responsibly. For balance transfers, it allows you to pay down debt without interest charges eating into your payments.
For new purchases, it acts as an interest-free loan. However, it’s crucial to have a plan to pay off the balance before the intro period expires to avoid accumulating interest at the card’s regular, often high, APR.
Does applying for a 0% APR card affect my credit score?
Applying for any new credit card results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can temporarily lower your credit score by a few points.
Most 0% intro APR cards require a good to excellent credit score (typically 670 or higher). If you are approved, the new line of credit can eventually help your score by lowering your overall credit utilization ratio, as long as you manage the account responsibly.
What is a balance transfer fee?
A balance transfer fee is a one-time charge for moving debt from one credit card to another. It’s usually calculated as a percentage of the amount transferred, typically between 3% and 5%, with a minimum fee of $5 or $10.
Even with this fee, a balance transfer can save you a significant amount of money if you’re moving debt from a high-interest card.
Make an Informed Decision!
Choosing the right 0% intro APR credit card depends entirely on your financial situation and goals. If your main objective is to eliminate debt, prioritize a card with the longest possible introductory period, like the U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card or the Citi Simplicity® Card.
If you’re looking to finance new purchases while earning rewards, a card like the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card or Capital One Savor Rewards may be a better fit.
Before applying, carefully review the card’s terms, including the length of the intro period, the balance transfer fee, and the regular APR that will apply once the promotion ends. With the right strategy, a zero-interest card can be a valuable ally in your financial toolkit!