You’ll want to pay off your balance before the introductory period ends as the low interest rate will no longer apply. So it’s a good idea to have an estimate as to how much time you’ll need to pay off the balance of your credit card. You can work this out by dividing the balance by how much you think you’ll be able to pay off on a monthly basis. This can give you a good idea as to what kind of balance transfer period you should be looking for to make sure you pay off your balance while taking advantage of the low interest rate.

Buying goods and services directly from your balance transfer credit card can be more expensive as the low or zero interest rate usually only applies to making actual balance transfers. It’s best to avoid using the card for spending until you check the rate with your provider.

Your current credit score will go a long way in deciding which balance transfer credit card you qualify for – the better your rating, the better the deals you’ll be eligible for. A balance transfer credit card can also impact your credit score depending on how you make use of it.

This is worthwhile to note as your credit score gives lenders an idea of whether you’re likely to be able to repay a debt within a specified period of time. If you open a number of credit card accounts, this can lower your credit score. If, however, you have your account open for an extended period of time and pay off your monthly interest on time, your credit ranking will improve.

While the provider might advertise a given interest rate, it may not necessarily be what you pay. The APR is usually offered to 51% of consumers who are approved for the card – the actual rate you’re offered could differ as it’ll depend on a number of other factors. It’s best to check with the provider to see what you’d be eligible for a more tailored result for you and your specific spending habits.

A balance transfer card allows you to transfer your existing credit card balance to a new credit account, which will often have a lower or zero percent interest rate. This allows you to avoid paying high interest rates as you settle your credit card debt.

The low or zero percent interest rate usually lasts for a set period of time, usually 12 to 18 months, but when this runs out you’ll be put back on the provider’s base rate – which is often higher. This would then make it a good time to look for your next balance transfer credit card.

Balance transfer credit cards can be good if:

• You’re going to be spending a significant amount of money paying off only your credit card interest rather than the credit itself
• The interest rate is notably high on your existing credit card

This way you’ll make a dent on the actual balance and not just spending money on the accrued monthly interest.

However, they may not be the best option if:

• The interest rate on your existing credit card is manageable
• The transfer-fee could potentially cost more than the interest rate you’re currently being charged
• You won’t be able to pay off your balance within the specified introductory period

The way a balance transfer card will affect your credit score depends on how you use it including how much you’re transferring, the credit limit on your new balance transfer card and whether you’re planning to pay off the credit account in full.

Your credit card score will be positively impacted if:

• Your accounts have been open for a long period of time – 15% of the credit score depends on the length of time your accounts have been open for
• You only have one balance transfer credit card

Your credit score will be negatively impacted if:

• You’re applying for a number of balance transfer cards
• Only seeking out balance transfers with a low introductory period
• You close your credit card account

It can cost anywhere from £60 to £300 to take out a balance transfer credit card which usually includes the low interest rate as part of the introductory period. You’ll also be charged a balance transfer fee — this can range from 1% to 4% for the best deals if you qualify.

The cost of a balance transfer credit card can vary significantly depending on the deal, the credit card balance you’re hoping to transfer as well as the introductory period. You’ll usually need a good credit rating to benefit from the best deals.

A balance transfer works by moving your debt from one credit card to another. The balance transfer credit card is what makes the transfer possible, which will then allow you to pay off your previous balance on your new card and effectively change the provider you’ll be repaying.

This means if you pay off your balance before the 0% interest deal expires, a balance transfer is effectively an interest-free loan. 

To find the best balance transfer credit card, it’s a good idea to shop around for the best deal with the MoneySuperMarket comparison tool.

Look out for the following to make sure you benefit from the most competitive offers:

• A low-interest rate
• A 0% balance transfer fee
• A credit limit that can cover your previous balance
• A long enough introductory period for you to pay off your debt

MoneySuperMarket gives you lots of clever ways to save a lot, by doing very little.

• Take control of your credit score by checking and improving it for free with Credit Monitor
• Never overpay again with Bill Manager, our energy monitoring service
• Over 50 ways to Get Money Calm

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