Best Low APR & Balance Transfer Cards for October 2025
If you are looking to save money with a generous 0% intro APR period on purchases, balance transfers, or both, then the following cards from our partners would all be great options.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Welcome Bonus
Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.Intro APR
0% Intro APR on purchases for 6 months0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months
Regular APR
17.99% – 26.99% Variable APRCash Back
1% – 2% Earn 2% Cash Back At Gas Stations And Restaurants On Up To $1,000 In Combined Purchases Each Quarter.Earn 1% Unlimited Cash Back On All Other Purchases – Automatically
Annual Fee
$0Recommended Credit Score
Excellent/Good (670 – 850*)Critic's Overview
A solid choice for those who spend modestly (the 2% categories are capped at $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter) and are looking for a straight forward cash back credit card focused on gas and restaurants. The dollar-for-dollar match of the cash back you’ve earned your first year is a unique bonus opportunity. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards.
- Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Get a 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers. Then 17.99% to 26.99% Standard Variable APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- Redeem cash back for any amount
- No annual fee.
- Terms and conditions apply.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Earn 1% Unlimited Cash Back On All Other Purchases – Automatically
Welcome Bonus
Intro APR
0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months
Regular APR
Recommended Credit Score
Critic's Overview
A solid choice for those who spend modestly (the 2% categories are capped at $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter) and are looking for a straight forward cash back credit card focused on gas and restaurants. The dollar-for-dollar match of the cash back you’ve earned your first year is a unique bonus opportunity. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards.
- Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Get a 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers. Then 17.99% to 26.99% Standard Variable APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- Redeem cash back for any amount
- No annual fee.
- Terms and conditions apply.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Top Feature
Citi Entertainment® PerksIntro APR
0% intro APR for 12 months on Purchases0% intro APR for 21 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR
16.99% – 27.74% (Variable)Rewards
N/AAnnual Fee
$0Recommended Credit Score
Excellent/Good (670 – 850*)Critic's Overview
If you are looking for a balance transfer card then this option from Citi, an advertising partner, may be a good uncomplicated option. You will pay no annual fee and save money on interest with one of the longest intro APR periods currently available on balance transfers. The balance transfer fee is higher than many other cards we review so make sure to take that into consideration. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.99% – 27.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
- There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Get free access to your FICO® Score online.
- With Citi Entertainment®, get special access to purchase tickets to thousands of events, including concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and more.
- No Annual Fee – our low intro rates and all the benefits don’t come with a yearly charge.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Top Feature
Intro APR
0% intro APR for 21 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR
Recommended Credit Score
Critic's Overview
If you are looking for a balance transfer card then this option from Citi, an advertising partner, may be a good uncomplicated option. You will pay no annual fee and save money on interest with one of the longest intro APR periods currently available on balance transfers. The balance transfer fee is higher than many other cards we review so make sure to take that into consideration. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.99% – 27.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
- There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Get free access to your FICO® Score online.
- With Citi Entertainment®, get special access to purchase tickets to thousands of events, including concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and more.
- No Annual Fee – our low intro rates and all the benefits don’t come with a yearly charge.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Welcome Bonus
Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account openingIntro APR
0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers for 15 months0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months
Regular APR
18.99% – 28.49% VariableCash Back
1.5% – 5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchasesAnnual Fee
$0Recommended Credit Score
Good – Excellent (670 – 850*)Critic's Overview
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card offers a generous and unlimited base rate of 1.5% cash back on all of your purchases while also providing an even higher rate on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, dining at restaurants and purchases at drugstores. You can earn a welcome bonus of $200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. You can also save money on interest with a lengthy intro APR on purchases and balance transfers. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
- Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
- No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
- Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% – 28.49%.
- No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
- Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
- Member FDIC

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Welcome Bonus
Intro APR
0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months
Regular APR
Recommended Credit Score
Critic's Overview
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card offers a generous and unlimited base rate of 1.5% cash back on all of your purchases while also providing an even higher rate on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, dining at restaurants and purchases at drugstores. You can earn a welcome bonus of $200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. You can also save money on interest with a lengthy intro APR on purchases and balance transfers. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
- Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
- No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
- Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% – 28.49%.
- No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
- Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
- Member FDIC

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Welcome Bonus
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchasesIntro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
Regular APR
17.99% – 27.99% Variable APRRewards
1.5x – 3x Points 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases.3 points per $1 spent on travel purchases booked through the Bank of America Travel Center.
If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25% – 75% more points on every purchase.
Annual Fee
$0Recommended Credit Score
Excellent/Good (670 – 850*)Critic's Overview
This is a great travel card for those who don’t want to pay an annual fee, are looking for a straightforward way to earn and redeem their rewards and want to save money with a generous intro APR. You’ll earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases and can easily earn 25,000 online bonus points (redeemable for a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases) when you spend at least $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
- Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent on travel purchases booked through the Bank of America Travel Center.
- Use your card to book your trip how and where you want – you’re not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
- Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.99% – 27.99% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
- If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases. You could earn 3.75-5.25 points for every $1 you spend on travel purchases made through the Bank of America Travel Center.
- Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
3 points per $1 spent on travel purchases booked through the Bank of America Travel Center.
If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25% – 75% more points on every purchase.
Welcome Bonus
Intro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
Regular APR
Recommended Credit Score
Critic's Overview
This is a great travel card for those who don’t want to pay an annual fee, are looking for a straightforward way to earn and redeem their rewards and want to save money with a generous intro APR. You’ll earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases and can easily earn 25,000 online bonus points (redeemable for a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases) when you spend at least $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
- Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent on travel purchases booked through the Bank of America Travel Center.
- Use your card to book your trip how and where you want – you’re not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
- Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.99% – 27.99% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
- If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases. You could earn 3.75-5.25 points for every $1 you spend on travel purchases made through the Bank of America Travel Center.
- Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.


CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Welcome Bonus
For a limited time, earn $300 in travel bonuses. Enjoy $100 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening – that’s equal to $300 in travelIntro APR
0% intro on purchases for 15 months0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months
Regular APR
18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)Rewards
1.25X – 5X Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day.Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
Annual Fee
$0Recommended Credit Score
Excellent, Good (670 – 850*)Critic's Overview
If you are looking for a travel rewards card that offers big-time benefits without an annual fee then the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a top option to consider. To start, there is an easy to earn bonus opportunity and a generous intro APR. You will also earn an unlimited 1.25X on every purchase made and an elevated rate on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn $300 in travel bonuses. Enjoy $100 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening – that’s equal to $300 in travel
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
- Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
- Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 18.99% – 28.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies


CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
Welcome Bonus
Intro APR
0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months
Regular APR
Recommended Credit Score
Critic's Overview
If you are looking for a travel rewards card that offers big-time benefits without an annual fee then the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a top option to consider. To start, there is an easy to earn bonus opportunity and a generous intro APR. You will also earn an unlimited 1.25X on every purchase made and an elevated rate on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn $300 in travel bonuses. Enjoy $100 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening – that’s equal to $300 in travel
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
- Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
- Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 18.99% – 28.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Top Feature
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account openingIntro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
Regular APR
17.99% – 27.99% Variable APRCash Back
1% – 6%6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice and 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs for the first $2,500 in combined choice category / grocery store / wholesale club quarterly purchases.After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category and 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, up to the quarterly maximum.
1% cash back on all other purchases.
If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25% – 75% more cash back on every purchase. The Preferred Rewards bonus is not applied to the 3% first year bonus.
Annual Fee
$0Recommended Credit Score
Excellent/Good (670 – 850*)Critic's Overview
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card is a top contender in the field of cash back cards without annual fees especially if you’re looking for a generous intro APR. With an easy to achieve intro bonus and fantastic ongoing cash back rewards, it checks all the important boxes. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- New offer! Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice: gas and EV charging stations; online shopping, including cable, internet, phone plans and streaming; dining; travel; drug stores and pharmacies; or home improvement and furnishings. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
- Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
- $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
- With the Bank of America Preferred Rewards® program, members can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means the 3% choice category could go up to 3.75%-5.25%. The Preferred Rewards bonus is not applied to the 3% first-year bonus.
- No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.99% – 27.99% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
- Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category and 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, up to the quarterly maximum.
1% cash back on all other purchases.
If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25% – 75% more cash back on every purchase. The Preferred Rewards bonus is not applied to the 3% first year bonus.
Top Feature
Intro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
Regular APR
Recommended Credit Score
Critic's Overview
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card is a top contender in the field of cash back cards without annual fees especially if you’re looking for a generous intro APR. With an easy to achieve intro bonus and fantastic ongoing cash back rewards, it checks all the important boxes. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- New offer! Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice: gas and EV charging stations; online shopping, including cable, internet, phone plans and streaming; dining; travel; drug stores and pharmacies; or home improvement and furnishings. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
- Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
- $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
- With the Bank of America Preferred Rewards® program, members can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means the 3% choice category could go up to 3.75%-5.25%. The Preferred Rewards bonus is not applied to the 3% first-year bonus.
- No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.99% – 27.99% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
- Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Welcome Bonus
Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.Intro APR
0% Intro APR on purchases for 15 months0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months
Regular APR
17.99% – 26.99% Variable APRCash Back
1% – 5% Earn 5% Cash Back At Different Places Each Quarter Up To The Quarterly Maximum When You Activate.Earn 1% Unlimited Cash Back On All Other Purchases – Automatically
Annual Fee
$0Recommended Credit Score
Excellent/Good (670 – 850*)Critic's Overview
This card is a cash back powerhouse with a unique opportunity to earn an unlimited cash back bonus at the end of year one. It offers a generous intro APR on purchases and balance transfers, impressive ongoing rewards and has no annual fee. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
- Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Redeem cash back for any amount
- Apply now and you could get a decision in as little as 90 seconds. No annual fee.
- Start shopping and earning rewards in minutes with your virtual card, before your physical card arrives in the mail, if eligible.
- Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.99% to 26.99% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- Terms and conditions apply.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Earn 1% Unlimited Cash Back On All Other Purchases – Automatically
Welcome Bonus
Intro APR
0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months
Regular APR
Recommended Credit Score
Critic's Overview
This card is a cash back powerhouse with a unique opportunity to earn an unlimited cash back bonus at the end of year one. It offers a generous intro APR on purchases and balance transfers, impressive ongoing rewards and has no annual fee. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
- Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Redeem cash back for any amount
- Apply now and you could get a decision in as little as 90 seconds. No annual fee.
- Start shopping and earning rewards in minutes with your virtual card, before your physical card arrives in the mail, if eligible.
- Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.99% to 26.99% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- Terms and conditions apply.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Welcome Offer
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.Intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening0% intro APR on balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening
Regular APR
19.99%-28.99% VariableRewards
1% – 6% Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).Earn 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
Earn 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
Earn 1% cash back on other purchases.
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.Recommended Credit Score
Good – ExcellentCritic's Overview
If you are looking for a well-rounded card that makes it easy to rack up cash back rewards while saving on interest look no further. With incredible cash back rates at U.S. supermarkets, select streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and for transit purchases, it’s easy to see why the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express (a CardCritics™ advertiser) is so popular. There is an impressive cash back welcome offer and though there is an annual fee, it is $0 for the first year. If you spend at least $30.44 on groceries a week the cash back earned will justify the cost of the annual fee. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- Low Intro APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.99% – 28.99%.
- Plan It®: Buy now, pay later with Plan It. Split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee so you don’t have the pressure of paying all at once. Simply select the purchase in your online account or the American Express® App to see your plan options. Plus, you’ll still earn rewards on purchases the way you usually do.
- Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
- Get up to a $10 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at disneyplus.com, Hulu.com, or Plus.espn.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you’re approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you’re approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.

CardCritics™ uses a 5-star rating system determined by our editorial team. The comparison factors include annual fees, APRs, bonus offers, ongoing rewards, accessibility, redemption options, and more. These factors are then weighted by importance to focus on key features that are most important in each specific category.
Earn 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
Earn 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
Earn 1% cash back on other purchases.
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
Welcome Offer
Intro APR
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening
Regular APR
Recommended Credit Score
Critic's Overview
If you are looking for a well-rounded card that makes it easy to rack up cash back rewards while saving on interest look no further. With incredible cash back rates at U.S. supermarkets, select streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and for transit purchases, it’s easy to see why the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express (a CardCritics™ advertiser) is so popular. There is an impressive cash back welcome offer and though there is an annual fee, it is $0 for the first year. If you spend at least $30.44 on groceries a week the cash back earned will justify the cost of the annual fee. Read our in-depth Review to learn more.Card Details From Issuer
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- Low Intro APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.99% – 28.99%.
- Plan It®: Buy now, pay later with Plan It. Split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee so you don’t have the pressure of paying all at once. Simply select the purchase in your online account or the American Express® App to see your plan options. Plus, you’ll still earn rewards on purchases the way you usually do.
- Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
- Get up to a $10 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at disneyplus.com, Hulu.com, or Plus.espn.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you’re approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you’re approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Balance transfer and 0% APR credit cards can help you cut interest and pay down debt faster, but each has limits to keep in mind. Balance transfer cards let you move high-interest debt to a 0% or low intro APR, while low-APR cards make carrying a balance more affordable long-term, though often with fewer perks. Below, we cover how these cards work, how to pick the right one, and common mistakes to avoid so you can maximize savings and stay on track toward becoming debt-free.
Balance transfer cards can be powerful tools when used strategically.
- Start by transferring your balance to a card with a 0% introductory APR to pause interest and give yourself breathing room.
- During this window, focus on making consistent, on-time payments to aggressively reduce your principal.
- Try to avoid using the card for new purchases, as these may accrue interest and undermine your progress.
- Always pay attention to the length of the promotional period and set reminders before it ends. If you’re disciplined and plan, you have the potential to save a lot of money on interest.
A 0% APR card lets you avoid paying interest for a set introductory period, usually 12–21 months. You can use it for purchases, balance transfers, or both – giving you time to pay down your balance without interest adding up.
Not all balance transfer cards are created equal. Look beyond flashy offers and focus on what really matters: length of the 0% APR period, balance transfer fees, and whether there’s a penalty APR in the fine print of the card details. A longer intro period gives you more time to pay off your debt without interest, while a lower transfer fee saves you money upfront. Consider whether the card charges an annual fee and if it aligns with your financial habits. The best card is the one that meets your financial goals. If you are interested in a card that offers rewards on spending make that a secondary consideration. Focus on paying down that balance within the promotional period and then utilize the card to start earning rewards.
Start by checking the length of the 0% intro APR period—cards typically offer 12 to 21 months interest-free, and longer windows give you more time to pay down balances. Next, compare purchase APRs by using preapproval tools, which can reveal your estimated rate before applying. Finally, think about the card’s value after the intro period: cards with the longest 0% APR windows often lack rewards, while those with shorter windows may offer cash back, travel perks, or protections like annual credits and cell phone coverage.
A 0% APR card offers temporary interest relief, but rates rise once the intro period ends. A low-APR card, on the other hand, keeps borrowing costs lower long-term but usually offers fewer perks and no extended interest-free window.
A balance transfer card can be a very powerful tool, but mistakes can still happen. One common mistake is only making minimum payments during the 0% APR period, which leaves a large balance once interest kicks in. Another common mistake is forgetting to factor in the transfer fee, which can be 3–5% or more. Avoid using the new card for additional purchases, as this could trigger unexpected interest charges. A very detrimental mistake that should be avoided is missing a payment. This results in a late fee, as well as potentially wiping out your temporary 0% APR. Consider automating payments paying at least the minimum to avoid this dangerous mistake. By understanding these pitfalls in advance, you can set up an effective plan and maximize your savings. Learn from common missteps—and let your balance transfer cards work for you, not against you.
Balance transfer fees typically range from 3% to 5% of the transferred amount, depending on the card. Even though the fee may seem small, it can add up, especially if you’re transferring a large balance. For example, transferring a $5,000 balance with a 3% fee will cost $150 upfront. This fee becomes part of the total balance on the new card, but if it’s less than the interest you’d pay by carrying that balance on a high-interest card, you can come out well ahead.
It may be possible to negotiate a lower balance transfer fee if you have a strong credit history and long-term customer status with the card issuer. An existing, positive banking relationship may help you secure a fee reduction or waiver, though this isn’t common.
If you’re a loyal client, contacting the issuer’s customer service department and asking about available options could be worth a shot. Mentioning competitive offers from other cards with lower or no transfer fees can strengthen your case. Even if the fee isn’t reduced, the issuer may offer other options, such as cards with a longer 0% APR period.
When a balance transfer is initiated, the fee is typically added to the transferred balance on the new credit card.
Suppose you transferred a $10,000 balance to the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card, which charges a balance transfer fee of 5%, min: $5. The balance transfer fee works out to $500 ($10,000 x 5%), so your total amount owing would then be $10,500. But you’d receive a 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers (followed by a 17.24%, 23.74%, or 28.99% Variable APR), giving you ample time to tackle your debt.
The balance transfer fee is part of how the credit card issuer still generates revenue when it’s not collecting interest. A transfer fee applies when you move a balance from one credit card to another. Some cards may offer promotional periods where the fee is reduced (or very rarely, waived). It’s critical to review the terms carefully so you know what you’ll owe on your new balance.
Keep in mind that after you’ve transferred a balance, you’re still responsible for making the minimum payment each month, even if you’re not being charged interest for a specified time. Not making the minimum payment has major consequences — for example, you could lose your introductory rate on a 0% APR balance transfer card, and be subject to a penalty fee for a late payment.
Note: You typically can’t transfer balances between cards issued by the same bank.
A balance transfer fee can be worth it if the money you save on interest with a balance transfer is more than the fee itself.
For instance, if you have a large balance on a card with a high interest rate, moving that balance to a card with a 0% APR for a limited period could save you a lot in the long run, even with the fee. The longer the intro APR period, the more time you have to chip away at your debt without being dragged down by interest charges.
It’s important to crunch the numbers and make a plan to pay off your debt before the introductory period expires. If you don’t pay off the balance before the 0% APR period ends, you could end up paying more in the long run.
Typically, balance transfer fees are 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. On a $1,000 balance, that translates to $30 (3% fee) to $50 (5% fee).

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer.
*CardCritics™ references a FICO® 8 score, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when evaluating your application.