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Balance Transfer Credit Cards FAQ
When it comes to using balance transfer credit cards, many consumers are filled with questions and concerns. While there are many benefits to using a balance transfer credit card, it is always best to have these questions answered and the concerns satisfied before moving forward with applying for one of these cards.
How Can Balance Transfer Credit Cards Save Me Money?
Balance transfer credit cards can save you money by reducing the amount of finance charges you pay every year. If you transfer even a small amount of money, such a $1,000, from a card with a higher APR to one with a lower APR, you will see a difference. For example, if you have a credit card with a 20% APR, you will pay $200 per year to maintain that $1,000 balance. On the other hand, you will pay only $80 on that same balance if you have a credit card with an 8% APR. That is a savings of $120! Imagine how much you will save on larger balances.
Even better, the best balance transfer credit cards offer 0.00% introductory APRs, which means you will pay no finance charges while that introductory period is active. With some balance transfer credit cards, this special rate remains in place until the entire amount you transferred is paid off.
What is an “Introductory Rate?”
An introductory rate is a special APR that lasts for a limited time. Often, the length of time this rate is in place is determined by your credit history. The introductory rate can be in place for as long as one year, though more common durations are six months, three months, and one month.
What is a “Fixed Rate?”
A fixed rate is a rate that does not change. Balance transfer credit cards with a low fixed rate may not offer a 0.00% introductory APR, but they might offer a 7.99% APR that remains this low no matter how long it takes you to pay off your balance, rather than skyrocketing up to 19.99% after the introductory period is over.
Why Does Everyone Say Balance Transfer Credit Cards are More Convenient?
Many people feel balance transfer credit cards are more convenient because it places all of your debt in one place. This makes it easier to track your expenses, to create a budget, and to get your bills paid on time.
Is it OK to Pay Only the Minimum Payment on My Balance Transfer Credit Card?
From a legal standpoint, all you are required to pay on your balance transfer credit card is the minimum payment. From a financial standpoint, however, this is a bad habit to get into. If you pay only the minimum payment, it can take you decades to pay off your debt – and that assumes you are not adding any more debt to your balance. So, if you want to get out of debt (and who doesn’t?), it is best to pay off more than your minimum payment. Set up a budget that allows for regular payments above your minimum payment to be sent to the credit card company – and stick to it.
Will a Balance Transfer Credit Card Get Me Out of Debt?
Yes and no. If used alone, a balance transfer credit card will not get you out of debt. If you transfer all of your credit card balances to your balance transfer credit card and pay only the minimum payment, it can still take you years to pay off the debt. Therefore, a balance transfer credit card should be viewed as one tool in you tool belt for helping you work your way out of debt. If used correctly and to its fullest advantage, it can help you get out – and stay out – of debt.
Low APR Credit Cards or 0 APR Introductory Which is Better?
Comparing low APR credit cards to all the 0 APR Credit Cards can be a long and troublesome chore and you may still have problems deciding which one to choose from. When you see all of the various incentive programs, rewards, and, of course, the 0 APR feature you may think you should jump in and get that card before the offer expires. But are the benefits really worth the price you will have to pay after the introductory offer expires or are low APR credit cards instead a better choice?
First, look at the incentive programs offered by the various companies. If you do not travel all the time, then one with rewards of air miles is one you can ignore, and so on and so forth. If you are just trying to decide on a regular credit card without all the free incentives that you can earn and you just desire to learn if low APR credit cards or 0 APR Credit Cards are better, then you can now compare these two types of offers.
So ask yourself these questions: -Do you wish to have a credit card to purchase something expensive that you cannot afford without putting it on credit? -How long will the 0 APR last? -After the introductory period ends, how will the APR change? -Are there membership fees, annual fees, etc
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If you really need to buy something expensive then the 0% APR can look very appetizing, however if you will not be able to pay off your purchase by the end of the introductory special, you may learn that you will be paying more in the long run with higher interest rates. If you buy something expensive with a low APR credit card, of course you will have to pay interest, but the APR will not rise drastically after the introductory special. This can make a big difference if you do not pay off the debt within the timeframe of the introductory offer only to be left with a much, much higher APR to pay off. The low APR credit cards have the advantage of a sustainable APR and may even save you more money over time.
Remember, the introductory special will not last forever, most credit cards companies have introductory APR offers that last from 3 months to as long as 15 months. Then you will go to a higher APR. Therefore, low APR credit cards might, in fact, be a better solution for some consumers.
The best way to decide is to calculate the big purchase that you wish to make, see how much balance you will have left on your card when the special APR is gone and then see if it is still lower than what you will pay with low ongoing low APR credit cards.
Most importantly, regarding any credit card offer, you need to learn to ask questions and read the fine print. Are there any other fees that apply with low APR credit cards? It is always best to choose a credit with lower fees, lower interest rates and of course one that will fit your needs. Low APR credit cards do not change once the introductory time period is over which is a very big plus.