The impact of any credit card on your financial situation hinges on your usage. Opting for a 0 percent introductory APR or balance transfer card can be a boon if managed wisely. However, missteps could lead to long-term regrets.
Prior to selecting a 0 percent APR credit card, it’s prudent to weigh the potential pros and cons. This knowledge not only aids in choosing the right card but also shields against accruing additional debt.
Advantages of 0% intro APR credit cards
The primary benefit of a 0 percent introductory APR credit card is clear: the avoidance of interest charges. Yet, there are additional potential advantages that may be less apparent. Take into account these pros before submitting your application for a zero-interest credit card.
Save money on interest
It’s no surprise that 0 percent intro APR credit cards can significantly reduce your interest expenses. This holds true regardless, but it’s particularly impactful considering the current average credit card interest rate exceeds 20 percent.
So, how much can you potentially save? Let’s say you have a $4,000 credit card debt with a 20 percent APR. If you decide to pay $200 each month, it would take you 25 months to clear the debt, costing you $906 in interest along the way.
Now, compare this to a 0 percent intro APR card: By paying the same $200 monthly, you could clear the debt in just 20 months without paying any interest. Of course, this assumes your introductory offer lasts at least 20 months, aligning with some of the top offers available currently.
For instance, the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card provides a 0 percent intro APR for 21 months on purchases and qualifying balance transfers made within the first 120 days of account opening. After this period, a variable APR of 18.24 percent, 24.74 percent, or 29.99 percent applies. A 5 percent balance transfer fee (minimum $5) applies to all transfers.
Using Bankrate’s balance transfer calculator can help you determine your potential savings with a 0 percent intro APR card by inputting your balance and interest rate.
Lower your monthly payments
While reducing interest expenses may be your primary objective, transitioning from a higher rate to a 0 percent intro APR can also decrease your monthly credit card payment.
However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that your credit card’s APR will revert to its regular rate once the intro APR period expires. Essentially, your reduced monthly payment may only be temporary.
Pay down debt faster
Eliminating interest charges through a balance transfer credit card can accelerate debt repayment significantly.
With no interest accruing each month, every payment made directly reduces the principal balance.
Enjoy perks and rewards on spending
Additionally, certain credit cards offering a 0 percent introductory APR also provide opportunities to earn rewards on purchases. These rewards may encompass welcome bonuses, cash back, or points for every dollar spent.
Moreover, credit cards often feature valuable perks and consumer protections, such as cellphone insurance, purchase protection against theft or damage, and extended warranties.
Improve your credit score
Lastly, responsible use of any credit card can contribute to enhancing your credit score. Reducing debt can positively impact your score by decreasing your credit utilization ratio, while timely payments play a crucial role in determining your FICO credit score.
Disadvantages of 0% intro APR credit cards
While 0 percent intro APR credit cards offer numerous advantages, misusing them can lead to financial losses. Here are the primary drawbacks to be aware of when using this type of credit card.
Late payments can foil your plans
Initially, note that failing to make a timely payment on a 0 percent intro APR credit card can result in losing the introductory APR period. Late payments often breach the terms of the introductory offer. Additionally, you might incur a penalty APR, which could be higher than the card’s regular variable APR, if you are late or miss a payment.
New credit cards can temporarily impact your credit score
When you apply for a new credit card, a hard inquiry is generated on your credit report, which may slightly lower your credit score. However, this impact is typically temporary and minimal. Unless you’re planning to apply for a loan in the near future and need to maintain an excellent credit score, the slight decrease shouldn’t be a major concern.
Balance transfer fees can apply to transferred debt
Using a 0 percent intro APR credit card for consolidating high-interest debt usually incurs a balance transfer fee, typically ranging from 3 percent to 5 percent of the transferred amount. Although this fee may be justified by the interest savings, it’s crucial to recognize that balance transfers rarely come without costs.
Intro APR periods don’t last forever
Zero-interest offers are only available for a limited time, usually ranging from 12 to 21 months, depending on the specific card. Once this introductory period expires, any remaining balance will start accruing interest at the card’s regular variable rate.
It’s important to note that credit cards generally have higher interest rates compared to other financial products such as personal loans and home equity loans.
Zero-interest offers can make you complacent
Lastly, carrying debt with a 0 percent APR can create a false sense of security. Knowing that interest isn’t accumulating on your purchases or transferred debts can lead to complacency, causing you to pay less each month than necessary.
Additionally, credit cards offering a 0 percent intro APR, especially those with rewards, may tempt you to spend more than initially planned.
When getting a 0% intro APR credit card makes sense
If you’re financially responsible and aiming to minimize interest expenses for a limited period, a 0 percent intro APR credit card can be a valuable asset. Consider applying for such a card if:
- You’re intending to make a significant purchase and anticipate paying off the full amount within the introductory period.
- You’re committed to reducing debt and have a strategy to pay off most or all of your balance within the introductory period.
- You’re between jobs or have recently encountered unexpected expenses, and you need a card that offers a grace period for interest-free payments on new balances.
- You have the discipline to avoid accumulating new balances that exceed your comfortable repayment capacity.
- You consistently make timely payments on credit cards and other financial obligations without encountering difficulties or hardships.
When you shouldn’t get a 0% intro APR credit card
Consider these warning signs that a 0 percent intro APR card might bring more trouble than benefits:
- If credit card debt has been a significant challenge for you in the past or remains a major issue in your financial life.
- If you’ve faced difficulties in paying bills punctually before and are concerned about repeating the same pattern.
- If you’re worried that acquiring a new credit card could lead to overspending beyond your means.
- If your intention is to transfer debt to a 0 percent intro APR card in order to free up credit on your existing cards for additional spending.
If any of these scenarios resonate with you, it’s advisable to steer clear of 0 percent intro APR credit cards. You might even want to refrain from acquiring any new lines of credit until you’ve devised a solid financial plan.
Alternatives for debt consolidation
Consider exploring alternatives to credit cards if you’re already dealing with credit card debt and need to consolidate. For instance, a personal loan provides the advantage of a fixed monthly payment with a fixed interest rate, offering clarity on when you’ll become debt-free from the outset. Additionally, personal loans discourage new charges, unlike credit cards.
If you’re a homeowner with equity in your property, leveraging a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC) could be beneficial for consolidating debts. These options typically offer lower interest rates compared to traditional credit cards, but bear in mind that they are secured by your home.
Regardless of your choice, it’s essential to recognize that your existing debts and potential new charges won’t disappear automatically. While a 0 percent intro APR credit card can assist in saving money and providing some breathing room, the responsibility ultimately rests with you to address your financial situation.
In Conclusion
When wielded wisely, a 0 percent intro APR credit card can not only spare you hundreds of dollars in interest charges but also expedite your journey toward debt freedom. These cards offer additional perks like enhanced consumer protection and potential rewards. However, they do entail certain conditions, such as forfeiting the introductory APR if a payment is late, as well as balance transfer fees ranging from 3 percent to 5 percent of each transferred balance.
If you’re committed to responsible card usage and fully understand both the benefits and drawbacks, a 0 percent intro APR credit card can serve as a valuable asset in managing your finances. To kickstart your journey, consider exploring our curated selection of the best 0 percent intro APR credit cards currently available, making it easy to compare and select the right option for you.