Compare balance transfer credit cards
Pay 0% interest on existing credit card debt
Longest Barclaycard balance transfer + exclusive cashback
Up to 31 months 0% on balance transfers. Rep APR 24.9%
Exclusive £25 cashback. Ends 6th Feb 12pm. Barclaycard T&Cs apply^
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We compare credit cards from trusted providers, including:
^Barclaycard T&Cs: Minimum BT of £2500 in 60 days is required for £25 Cashback 3.45% Transfer fee. New customers only. Representative example: Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year, at a Purchase Rate of 24.9% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable). Aged 21+, UK resident for 2+ years, have managed credit for 4+ years annual earning min £20k. Compare the Market Ltd acts as a credit broker, not a lender. Credit is subject to application, financial status and borrowing history. Transfers from other Barclaycard accounts are not allowed.
[1] Correct as of December 2024.
Our best 0% balance transfer credit cards
These are some of the 0% balance transfer credit cards with the longest interest-free periods from our panel of providers (accurate as of 15 January 2025).
Most are for new customers only and you can’t normally make a transfer between two cards from the same banking group, so check before applying. Depending on your credit history, you might not be eligible for these cards or get the full 0% period advertised.
EXCLUSIVE CASHBACK - Barclaycard Platinum 31 month balance transfer credit card: up to 31 months 0% + possible £25 cashback
| 0% balance transfer period | Up to 31 months |
|---|---|
| Transfer fee | 3.45% |
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable). |
| Good to know |
Transfers must be made in first 60 days to get offer EXCLUSIVE £25 cashback when you transfer £2,500+ within 60 days. Must successfully apply by 6 February Also 0% on purchases for up to 3 months from account opening date New customers only, credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
Tesco balance transfer credit card: 30 months 0%
| 0% balance transfer period | 30 months |
|---|---|
| Transfer fee | 3.19% |
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable). |
| Good to know |
Transfers must be made in first 90 days to get offer Also 0% for up to 9 months on money transfers made in first 90 days (3.99% transfer fee) Collect Clubcard points almost everywhere you spend using your card, plus your usual points in Tesco Credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
MBNA balance transfer credit card: up to 30 months 0%
| 0% balance transfer period | Up to 30 months |
|---|---|
| Transfer fee | 3.20% |
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year at a purchase rate of 24.94% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable). |
| Good to know |
Transfers must be made in first 60 days to get offer Also 0% for up to 9 months on money transfers made in first 60 days (4% transfer fee) Credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
This table is accurate as of 15 January 2025. For an up-to-date view of which 0% balance transfer cards are available to you, click the blue ‘Check eligibility’ button.
Compare the Market Limited acts as a credit broker, not a lender. To apply you must be a UK resident and aged 18 or over. 0% interest applies as long as you make minimum monthly repayments. Credit is subject to status and eligibility. **Representative APR: the estimated cost of borrowing – calculated as an annual percentage rate – after the 0% period ends.
How we choose which 0% balance transfer cards to feature
We offer lots of different credit cards via our panel of lenders, so when deciding which ones to feature on this page we prioritise:
- Longest 0% balance transfer period
- Standout offers
- Cards where you get the full 0% length if accepted (not 'up to' a certain number of months)
- Lowest balance transfer fee (if applicable)
- Lowest representative APR
- Longest 0% purchase period (if applicable)
- Other terms and conditions
What is a balance transfer credit card?
A balance transfer credit card lets you move what you owe on one or more credit cards to a new card with a different provider.
A balance transfer card typically has a lower or 0% interest rate for a fixed period. It could help you get on top of your credit card debt and reduce the total cost of your borrowing.
How do balance transfer credit cards work?
If you’re accepted for a balance transfer credit card, you can ask your new provider to transfer the balance from your old credit card to your new one.
You could be charged a fee for making the switch. The fee is typically between 2% and 4% of the amount you’re moving across.
An interest-free balance transfer card works best if you can pay off the balance in full by the end of the 0% period. After that, the interest rate will automatically go back to the standard rate.
One way to do this is to divide the outstanding debt by the number of months until the end of the 0% deal, then repay that amount each month. If you can’t afford to do this, you’ll still be expected to make at least the minimum repayment due each month. If you don’t, you could lose your 0% rate and be charged a late payment or missed payment fee.
If you still have an outstanding balance at the end of the interest-free period, you might be able to switch to another balance transfer card.
Here’s an example of how a balance transfer works
- You have an outstanding credit card balance of £3,000, charging an annual interest rate of 20%.
- You move the balance to a card with a 0% promotional offer for 24 months, with a 2% balance transfer fee. You now owe a total of £3,060, including the £60 one-off fee.
- By paying £128 on time each month for 24 months, with no other spending, you can clear your balance without paying any interest.
The five golden rules of balance transfer credit cards
1. Repay at least the minimum amount each month
Aim to pay off more than the minimum amount each month, which is typically a percentage of the balance. If you don’t, you could lose your 0% deal and find yourself on a higher rate of interest. You’re likely to be charged a penalty fee too.
Ideally, set up a direct debit for more than the minimum repayment each month. You’ll clear your debt quicker than by only making the minimum repayment, which will shrink as your debt shrinks.
2. Only use the card for balance transfers
Don’t be tempted to spend or withdraw money on the card – unless you have a balance transfer and purchases card. You’ll be charged interest from the day you take out the cash until you pay off the balance. You’ll typically be charged a cash advance fee too.
3. Make the balance transfer within the time limit
Most 0% deals require you to make a transfer within the first 60-90 days of taking out the card. Check the time limit on your card as it can vary among providers. If you make your first transfer after the time limit, you’ll likely be charged interest at the card’s normal rate.
4. You can’t make a balance transfer between two cards from the same bank or banking group
You won’t be able to make a balance transfer between cards issued by the same bank. For example, from one NatWest card to another NatWest card. And some card providers won’t allow you to transfer between cards in the same banking group.
5. Clear the full balance before the 0% deal ends
Once the 0% deal ends, you’ll be charged interest on any remaining balance. To avoid a nasty interest hike, either pay off the balance in full or shift the debt to another 0% balance transfer card.
Give yourself time to compare balance transfer deals before the higher interest rate kicks in.
If you aren’t eligible for another balance transfer card, you might want to consider transferring back to the original card you moved the debt from, if you still have it. Even if the interest is high, it might be lower than the interest you’d be paying on your current balance transfer card.
What are the different types of balance transfer credit card?
Depending on your financial circumstances, you could choose from these types of balance transfer card:
Long 0% interest
Some balance transfer credit cards offer 0% interest for up to 29 months, giving you more time to repay your debt without interest. You’re likely to be charged a one-off fee for transferring a balance.
No-fee balance transfer
A few cards won’t charge a fee to transfer your balance, but the interest-free period is only likely to last 12 to 15 months.
Balance transfer and purchase
With a balance transfer and purchase credit card, you can pay down your debt and make purchases. Many cards offer a low or 0% interest rate on both, meaning you can save on interest whether you’re transferring a balance or buying something. Just be aware that the interest-free period isn’t always the same for balance transfers and purchases.
Am I eligible for a 0% balance transfer credit card?
Whether you’re eligible for a 0% balance transfer credit card will depend on your financial status and credit history.
To check if you’re eligible for a balance transfer credit card without impacting your credit score, use our credit card eligibility checker.
What are the pros and cons of balance transfer cards?
Consider these advantages and disadvantages before applying:
Pros of a 0% balance transfer credit card:
- You could clear what you owe faster as you’re not paying interest
- You’ll pay less overall as the balance transfer fee – which is rarely more than 4% – will be lower than the interest on your current card
- There’s only one card to manage, so it’s easier to keep track of payments.
Cons of a 0% balance transfer credit card:
- You may have to pay a balance transfer fee
- If you don’t make your monthly payments on time, you could lose your interest-free deal
- Your interest rate will revert to the standard interest rate if you don’t clear your debt within the interest-free period
- You’ll normally be charged interest if you use the card to make purchases
- You risk building up more debt, especially if you keep spending on your old cards.
How to transfer a credit card balance
Looking to transfer your credit card balance? Here are the steps to take:
1. Check your credit card debt
Look at your credit card debt and work out how much you can afford to pay off each month. Then divide your debt by that figure. That will show you how many months you need a 0% deal for when comparing balance transfer cards.
2. Compare balance transfer credit cards
You can do this with Compare the Market. Simply give us a few details and we’ll show you which balance transfer cards you’re likely to be accepted for. We carry out a soft credit search, which won’t impact your credit score.
3. Apply for a 0% balance transfer card
Apply for the card of your choice. The card provider will carry out a full credit check to see whether you’re a reliable borrower.
If you’re accepted, you’ll need to tell the provider how much you want to transfer. Your new card provider will organise the balance transfer, but you’ll need to keep up repayments on your old card until the transfer is complete.
4. Wait for the balance to transfer
Thanks to faster electronic payment processes, an online balance transfer generally only takes one working day to complete. But it can take longer, depending on the bank.
You can usually transfer more than one balance, even if they’re from different credit card providers, as long as it doesn’t take you over your new card limit.
Just be aware that you can’t transfer a balance between two cards issued by the same provider, or from another provider in the same banking group.
How long is the interest-free period on 0% balance transfer credit cards?
It depends on the 0% balance transfer credit card you choose. Interest-free periods range from six months to two years, with a few providers offering up to 28 months.
Best balance transfer cards for bad credit
Typically, you’ll need a decent credit score to be eligible for a balance transfer credit card. The best balance transfer cards won’t be available to those with bad credit.
However, there are a few providers who may consider people with past credit issues. But, typically, they’ll offer 0% deals for much shorter periods than the best balance transfer cards. And once the 0% period ends, the interest rate for these types of cards is typically much higher.
If you have bad credit, instead of transferring all of your debt to a balance transfer card, you could consider moving just a portion. In other words, an amount you’re confident you can pay off within the 0% period. You’ll still need to continue paying off the original card, but for a much smaller amount.
If you’re worried about debt, there’s plenty of free advice and support available. You can find debt advice services on the MoneyHelper website.
How to find the right balance transfer credit card
When looking for the best credit card balance transfer offers, consider:
- How long the 0% period lasts
- Any fee for transferring your balance
- The interest rate once the 0% introductory period ends
- Monthly or annual fees
- Your credit rating – some providers may require a good credit score.
Balance transfer cards with a longer 0% period may have higher transfer fees. If you think you can pay off your balance quickly, you might be better off choosing a card with a shorter 0% period and a lower transfer fee.
What do I need to compare credit cards?
Just give us a few details, including:
- Your name, age, marital status, number of dependants and address
- What type of credit card you want
- Your annual income
- The date you moved to your current address.
Compare the Market Limited acts as a credit broker, not a lender. To apply you must be a UK resident and aged 18 or over. Credit is subject to status and eligibility.
What to do if you can’t get a balance transfer card
If you can’t get a balance transfer card, ask your current credit card provider for a lower interest rate. They might consider this if you’ve been a reliable customer in the past.
If you have other credit cards, you could shift the debts from the highest interest cards to the lower rate card. You might be charged a one-off transfer fee for doing this.
Or you could consider a debt consolidation loan. This would allow you to combine your existing credit card debts into one payment plan with a single interest rate. Debt consolidation loans can have a lower interest rate than credit cards. But the downside is that you’ll be paying interest for longer, so it may cost you more overall.
Why use Compare the Market?
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What our expert says...
“A balance transfer credit card is a useful way to cut the cost of credit card debt which can see some people save £1,000s per year, if used well. With one, you get a new card to pay off debt on an existing card (or cards) so you owe the new one instead.
Given the standout deals offer 0% periods of more than two years, you can escape typical 20%-30% interest rates for that period. This means your payments almost exclusively pay down the debt (assuming you don't spend on the card) rather than covering what can be expensive interest. I say 'almost exclusively pay down the debt', as some cards charge a fee, so early payments go to pay that off first.
To get the most out of a balance transfer card, it's wise not to spend on it. You should always pay at least the monthly minimum payment and plan to pay off the debt when the 0% ends to avoid interest. I say all this both as someone who has covered this market for nearly 20 years and as someone saving a lot of money myself with a balance transfer card now.
Without my card, which I used to transfer a debt which was originally the money to buy my car, I'd be £1,000s a year worse off versus standard credit card rates.”
- Guy Anker, Personal finance and insurance expert
Frequently asked questions
Which credit card providers let you transfer a balance to or from a partner?
Some lenders, for example Barclaycard, will let you transfer debt from a card in someone else’s name, as long as it’s not with the same card provider or banking group.
Just be aware that if you transfer your partner’s debt to your card, the debt becomes yours. Even if your partner agrees to make the repayments, you’re the one responsible for paying off the card.
If your lender won’t let you transfer your partner’s debt, you could consider a 0% money transfer card. This lets you transfer money from the card directly into your bank account, often with a money transfer fee of 3% to 5%. You could then use the money to pay off your partner’s card.
If someone is trying to make you pay off their card, be aware of the signs of financial abuse and what to do.
What’s the difference between a balance transfer and a money transfer?
A balance transfer lets you move a credit card balance onto another card from a different provider.
A money transfer lets you transfer money from a credit card directly into your current account.
How much can you balance transfer on a credit card?
Balance transfer cards will let you transfer up to 95% of your total credit limit. Different providers offer different deals, depending on your credit score and balance. That’s why it’s a good idea to shop around for a balance transfer credit card that suits your needs.
What is a balance transfer fee?
A balance transfer fee is what a lender charges you to move a debt from one credit card to another. This is usually a percentage of the amount you’re transferring, although it’s sometimes possible to get fee-free transfers with a shorter 0% offer period.
For example, if the card has a 3% balance transfer fee and you transfer £1,000, the transfer fee will be £30. This is added to your balance. Instead of owing £1,000, you’ll owe £1,030 on the new card.
If you’re transferring a small balance, some providers charge a set fee rather than a percentage.
What will my credit limit be on a balance transfer credit card?
Your credit limit will depend on what your provider is prepared to offer you. They’ll base this on your financial situation and will look at your:
- Credit history
- Income
- Debt as a proportion of your income
- Repayment history.
Once your balance transfer credit card is active, you can find your credit limit by logging into your online account or app, calling your provider or by checking a statement.
What if the balance transfer limit I’m offered isn’t enough?
If the balance transfer limit isn’t high enough, you have two options:
- Move what you can onto the new card and pay this off month by month. At the same time, you’ll need to keep making at least the minimum payment each month on your old card – meaning you’ll be paying the minimum amounts on two different cards every month.
- Apply for another card from a different provider to see if you can get a higher limit. But be aware that applying for multiple cards from different providers over a short period suggests to lenders that you’re in financial difficulty. This can lower your credit score.
Why is it important to check the APR?
The APR, or annual percentage rate, shows you the total cost of borrowing money over a year. It’s a good way to see how much a credit card will cost you over the long term, once your interest-free period ends.
Credit card APR takes into account the interest rate, together with any fees.
What does the 0% rate cover?
The 0% introductory rate is typically for balance transfers only, not purchases.
If you want to use your card for spending, look for a 0% balance transfer credit card that offers an interest-free period for both balance transfers and purchases.
Just be aware that these combined cards usually charge a higher transfer fee. Also, the 0% period isn’t always the same for balance transfers and purchases.
Do credit card balance transfers lower your credit score?
If your application for a balance transfer credit card is approved, your credit score may temporarily go down because you’re taking on more credit. But it should bounce back in the following months if you make your repayments on time.
How many times can I transfer a card balance?
In theory, you can transfer your credit card balance as many times as you like. But this may impact your credit score. Too many applications for credit over a short period could lower your credit rating. This would reduce your chances of getting the best balance transfer deals.
