Cash Back, No Annual Fee, Daily use
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Best 0% APR Credit Cards of March 2024

We all know that paying interest on credit cards is avoidable by being responsible – paying off your balance every month. Otherwise, ‘borrowing’ from your credit card is not very smart due to the high APRs. The great news is that some credit cards offer introductory APR periods during which you are free from paying an APR. Some have an intro period both for balance transfers and purchases, and some for only one of those. If you're currently paying a high-interest balance on another credit card, transferring it to a card with an intro 0% APR offer on balance transfers will potentially save you a lot of money. Or if you’re planning a large purchase (like a new computer, home appliance, or furniture), you could use an intro APR offer on purchases that will enable you to pay it off interest-free. Well, interest-free only if you pay it off in full before the introductory period ends. That brings us to something very important: Be careful because after the intro period ends - it won’t be cheap at all. If you need a card with a 0% APR period offer, keep reading to better understand how they work and to learn about the best credit cards with this offer.

By Hanna Volkava
Updated March 15, 2024

Best Credit Cards for 0 APR in March 2024

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Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card best for Cash Back, No Annual Fee, Daily use

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Quicksilver Capital One
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
19.99% - 29.99% Variable
Our Rating:
4.49
scorer
Credit score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
  • Rewards Rate:
    • 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase.
  • Intro Offer:
    • $200 Cash Bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.
  • Purchase Intro APR:
    0% Introductory APR for the first 15 months that your account is open
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    19.99% - 29.99% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    Capital One
  • Details:

    The Quicksilver Credit Card from Capital One® offers 1.5% Cash Back on all purchases with a $0 annual fee. It also offers a 0% intro on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, followed by the standard APR of 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable). The card has a balance transfer fee of 3%. After that, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR (none for balances transferred at the Transfer APR).

    New cardholders will have the opportunity to earn a bonus: One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.

  • Pros:
    • No minimum redemption is required
    • No annual fee
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Intro APR period on Purchases
    • Generous sign-up bonus
  • Cons:
    • No bonus rewards categories
    • Other cards offer longer intro APR periods and/or lower APR
    • You need a good credit score to get this card
  • Benefits:
    • $200 Cash Bonus (once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening);
    • Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase;
    • $0 Fraud Liability;
    • Complimentary Concierge Service;
    • Travel Accident Insurance;
    • 24-hour Travel Assistance Services;
    • Capital One Shopping;
    • Shop With Your Rewards.
View all Quicksilver details
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Unique Platinum
Annual fee:
See website for details*
Regular APR:
0.00% Regular
Our Rating:
3.1
scorer
Credit score
No Credit History to Poor (0-579)
  • Rewards Rate:
    • $25 With the Unique Platinum Card you’ll also get $25 in Reward Dollars every month that you can use to save in your choice of over 500,000 ways.
  • Details:

    The Unique Platinum Card is a good option for people with bad credit or no credit.

    With the Unique Platinum Card you’ll also get $25 in Reward Dollars every month.

    The card is valid only at My Unique Outlet.

    Read full review

  • Pros:
    • Unsecured credit line
    • Instant approval
  • Cons:
    • Valid only at My Unique Outlet
    • Minimum monthly payment
  • Benefits:
    • $1000 Credit Line;
    • $25 in Reward Dollars.
View all Unique Platinum details
Apply now
On Uniquecardservices‘s website
Card detail

Chase Freedom Unlimited® best for Cash Back, 0 APR, No Annual Fee, Daily use

Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
20.49% - 29.24% Variable
Our Rating:
5
scorer
Credit score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
  • Rewards Rate:
    • 5% Cash Back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
    • 3% Cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services.
    • 3% Cash Back on drugstore purchases.
    • 1.5% Cash Back on all other purchases.
  • Intro Offer:
    • $200 Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Purchase Intro APR:
    0% Intro APR for the first 15 months that your Account is open
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    20.49% - 29.24% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    Chase
  • Details:

    The Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card offers 0% introductory APR period (20.49% to 29.24% Variable after that) and a sign-up bonus that’s worth far more than most Cash-Back cards offer — all for an annual fee of $0.

    The card offers 5% back on travel booked through Chase, 3% Cash Back on restaurants and drugstore purchases and 1.5% back on other purchases.

    Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

  • Pros:
    • No Annual Fee
    • Generous rewards
    • 0% intro APR
    • Sign-up bonus
  • Cons:
    • Foreign Transaction Fee
  • Benefits:
    • Zero Liability Protection;
    • $200 intro bonus;
    • 5 percent Cash Back on all travel purchased via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal;
    • 3 percent back on dining;
    • 3 percent back at drugstores;
    • 1.5 percent Cash Back on general purchases;
    • Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver;
    • Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance;
    • Travel and Emergency Assistance Services;
    • 24/7 Fraud Protection;
    • Redeem for Cash Back;
    • Gift cards.
Card detail

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express best for Cash Back, Gas, 0 APR, No Annual Fee, Families, Shopping, Groceries

Blue Cash Everyday® American Express
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
19.24% - 29.99% Variable
Our Rating:
4.18
scorer
Credit score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
  • Rewards Rate:
    • 3% Cash Back on groceries at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
    • 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
    • 2% Cash Back on gas at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
    • 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
  • Intro Offer:
    • $200 After you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. You will receive the $200 back in the form of a statement credit.
  • Purchase Intro APR:
    0% Introductory APR for the first 15 months from the date of account opening
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    19.24% - 29.99% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    American Express®
  • Details:

    The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers up to $200 back after spending $2,000, all within the first 6 months. Plus, earn 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%), 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 2% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations 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.

    The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers an introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, followed by a variable APR of 19.24% to 29.99%.

    Your Card gives you the option to carry a balance with interest or pay in full each month. So, whether you're managing your monthly expenses or making a large purchase, you can have the payment flexibility you need while continuing to earn rewards.

    When you use your Card to reserve and pay for the Entire Rental and decline the collision damage waiver at the rental Company counter, you can be covered for Damage to or Theft of a Rental Vehicle in a Covered Territory.

    Stay in the know with exclusive access to ticket presales and Card Member-only events in a city near you. Check out Broadway shows and concert tours, family and sporting events, and more.

  • Pros:
    • No Annual Fee
    • Provides Gas and Grocery Rewards
    • 0% Intro Offer
    • Welcome Bonus
  • Cons:
    • Limited Redemption
    • Bonus Cash Backs Capped
    • Card not Ideal for Travelling Abroad
  • Benefits:
    • 3% Сash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%);
    • 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%);
    • 2% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%);
    • 1% Cash Back on all other purchases;
    • $200 back after spending $2,000 within the first 6 months (in the form of a statement credit);
    • Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance;
    • 24/7 Global Assist® Hotline;
    • American Express Experiences;
    • Fraud Protection;
    • Pay It Plan It;
    • Additional Cards;
    • Terms Apply.
Card detail

Citi Simplicity® best for 0 APR, Single mom

Citi Simplicity®
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
19.24% - 29.99% Variable
Our Rating:
3.5
scorer
Credit score
Excellent (740-799)
  • Purchase Intro APR:
    0% Introductory APR for 12 months from date of account opening
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    19.24% - 29.99% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    Citi
  • Details:

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card is a no annual fee card that can be utilized for balance transfers and ultimately paying off debt. The card does not offer a rewards program

    The Citi Simplicity® Card offers an introductory 0% Intro APR on purchases for 12 months. Additionally, the card offers 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months from the date of the first transfer. After that, the APR will be 19.24% – 29.99%, based on your creditworthiness.

    The card has a balance transfer fee of $5 or 5 percent of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater. Balance transfers must be completed within four months of opening the account. If you miss a payment, there is no late fee or penalty APR.

    The Card's Digital Wallets let you shop with confidence in millions of places online, within apps and in stores. With digital wallets you can speed through checkout and continue to enjoy all the great benefits that come with your card.

    Identity theft can happen to anyone. If it happens to you, Citi® Identity Theft Solutions can help you resolve the matter and get your life back on track.

  • Pros:
    • 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 21 months
    • 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months
    • No annual fee
    • No late fees or penalty rates ever
  • Cons:
    • No rewards system or sign-up bonus
    • Foreign transaction fee
  • Benefits:
    • $0 Fraud Liability;
    • 24/7 Customer Service;
    • Digital Wallets;
    • Citi® Identity Theft Solutions.
Card detail

Chase Freedom Flex℠ best for Cash Back, 0 APR, No Annual Fee, Daily use

Chase Freedom Flex℠
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
20.49% - 29.24% Variable
Our Rating:
5
scorer
Credit score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
  • Rewards Rate:
    • 5% Cash Back on up to $1,500 on combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate.
    • 5% Cash Back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
    • 3% Cash Back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services.
    • 3% Cash Back on drugstore purchases.
    • 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.
  • Intro Offer:
    • $200 Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
    • 5% Back on grocery store purchases (excluding Target® and Walmart®) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year (that's $600 cash back).
  • Purchase Intro APR:
    0% Intro APR for the first 15 months that your Account is open
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    20.49% - 29.24% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    Chase
  • Details:

    The Chase Freedom Flex card offers Cash Back in a wide variety of categories.

    You’ll earn 5% Cash Back on travel (through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel service, and also for Lyft rides). You’ll also get 3% Cash Back on restaurant purchases, on drugstore purchases and 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.

    Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

    The card offers a 15-month 0% annual percentage rate for purchases and balance transfers, after which the APR is 20.49% - 29.24% Variable. The card charges no annual fee but 5%, or a $5 minimum fee, on balance transfers.

  • Pros:
    • $200 sign-up bonus
    • High cash back rewards on quarterly rotating bonus categories
    • Decent cash back rewards on select spending categories
    • 0% intro APR on purchases
    • No annual fee
  • Cons:
    • Foreign transaction fee
    • Rotating spending categories require activation
    • No intro APR on balance transfers
  • Benefits:
    • 5% Back on grocery store purchases (excluding Target® and Walmart®) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year (that's $600 cash back);
    • 5% Cash Back on up to $1,500 on combined purchases in bonus categories;
    • 5% Cash Back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards;
    • 3% Cash Back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services;
    • 3% Cash Back on drugstore purchases;
    • 1% Cash Back on all other purchases;
    • $200 Cash Back;
    • Zero Liability Protection;
    • Extended Warranty Protection;
    • Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance;
    • Cell Phone Protection;
    • Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver;
    • Travel and Emergency Assistance Services.
Card detail

Citi Diamond Preferred® best for 0 APR, No Annual Fee

Diamond Preferred® Citi
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
18.24% - 28.99% Variable
Our Rating:
3.71
scorer
Credit score
Excellent (740-799)
  • Intro Offer:
    • No current offer .
  • Purchase Intro APR:
    0% Introductory APR for 12 months from date of account opening
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    18.24% - 28.99% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    Citi
  • Details:

    The Citi Diamond Preferred® Card comes with 0% introductory APR offer for 12 months on purchases and 21 months on balance transfers (18.24% - 28.99% variable after that).

    The Card charges no annual fee and gives cardholders with excellent credit a chance at a relatively low ongoing APR.

  • Pros:
    • 0% Intro APR for 12 months on purchases and 21 months on balance transfers
    • Flexible payment due date
    • No annual fee
    • Free access to FICO® score
  • Cons:
    • No rewards
    • Foreign transaction fee applied
    • Late payment fees
  • Benefits:
    • $0 Liability;
    • Digital Wallets;
    • Citi Entertainment.
Card detail

U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card best for 0 APR, No Annual Fee

U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
18.74% - 29.74% Variable
Our Rating:
3.74
scorer
Credit score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
  • Purchase Intro APR:
    0% Introductory APR for the first 21 billing cycles
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    18.74% - 29.74% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    US bank
  • Details:

    The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Credit Card is a good 0% intro APR card.

    The Visa® Platinum Card doesn't charge an annual fee.

    The Card has a 0% introductory APR period for 21 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers made within 60 days of account opening. After that, the variable APR is 18.74% to 29.74%.

    Cardholders who pay their cell phone bill every month with the U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card will receive this benefit. Get up to $600 reimbursement if your cell phone is stolen or damaged when you pay your monthly cell phone with your card.

  • Pros:
    • Great introductory APR
    • No Penalty APR
    • No Annual Fee
    • Excellent Cell Phone Protection Coverage
    • Flexible payment date
  • Cons:
    • No Rewards
    • No Welcome Bonus
    • Foreign Transaction Fee
  • Benefits:
    • Cell phone protection;
    • Auto pay & due date choice;
    • ID Navigator Powered by NortonLifeLock.
Card detail

American Express® Cash Magnet® best for Cash Back, 0 APR

Cash Magnet® American Express
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
19.24% - 29.99% Variable
Our Rating:
4.36
scorer
Credit score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
  • Rewards Rate:
    • 1.5% Earn unlimited Cash Back on all purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
  • Intro Offer:
    • $200 Earn $200 Back after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. You will receive the $200 back in the form of a statement credit.
  • Purchase Intro APR:
    0% Introductory APR for the first 15 months from the date of account opening
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    19.24% - 29.99% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    American Express®
  • Details:

    The American Express® Cash Magnet® Credit Card is one of the best cash back credit cards. You’ll earn Cash Back on every purchase at a flat rate of 1.5 % back, no matter what you buy. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.

    The card also carries a nice welcome bonus and no annual fee. Earn $200 Back after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. You will receive the $200 cash back in the form of a statement credit.

    The American Express® Cash Magnet® Credit Card offers an introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles, followed by a variable APR of 19.24% to 29.99%.

    Whenever you travel more than 100 miles from home, Global Assist Hotline is available for 24/7 medical, legal, financial and other select emergency assistance and coordination services, such as medical and legal referrals, emergency cash wires, and missing luggage assistance. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

    Stay in the know with exclusive access to ticket presales and Card Member-only events in a city near you. Check out Broadway shows and concert tours, family and sporting events, and more.

  • Pros:
    • No annual fee
    • 0% Intro APR
    • Uniform Bonus Tier
    • $200 Welcome Bonus
  • Cons:
    • Relatively Low Cash Back Rate
    • Limited Cash Back Reward Redemption
    • Limited Acceptance Globally
    • Foreign transaction fee
    • APR Penalty
  • Benefits:
    • $200 Back;
    • Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back;
    • 0% intro APR;
    • American Express Experiences;
    • 24/7 Travel Assistant;
    • Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance;
    • Purchase Protection;
    • Terms Apply.
Card detail

Citi Double Cash best for Cash Back, No Annual Fee, Daily use

Double Cash Citi
Annual fee:
$0
Regular APR:
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Our Rating:
4.49
scorer
Credit score
Good to Excellent (670-799)
  • Rewards Rate:
    • 2% Cash Back on every purchase with unlimited 1% Cash Back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for purchases.
  • Intro Offer:
    • $200 Cash Back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of your Citi Double Cash® card account opening.
  • Balance Transfer APR:
    19.24% - 29.24% Variable
  • Issuer name:
    Citi
  • Details:

    The Citi® Double Cash Credit Card offers a few concrete ways in which you can better your financial situation, improve your credit card habits and enjoy cash back rewards without the fuss of tracking rotating categories. Earn $200 Cash Back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of your Citi Double Cash® card account opening.

    Earn 2% Cash Back on every purchase with unlimited 1% Cash Back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for purchases.

    The Citi® Double Cash offers a 0% percent introductory APR offer on balance transfers (19.24% to 29.24% variable APR after).

    The Citi Double Cash extends a myriad of security and fraud protections.

  • Pros:
    • Flat-rate Cash Back Rewards on Everything
    • High Rewards Rate
    • No annual fee
    • Attractive Intro APR on Balance Transfers
  • Cons:
    • Losing your 1% Cash-Back Is Pretty Easy
    • Foreign transaction fee
    • Balance Transfer Fee
  • Benefits:
    • Citi Entertainment;
    • $200 Cash Back;
    • 2% Cash Back on every purchase;
    • Fraud Protection;
    • The Lost Wallet Service;
    • $0 Liability for Unauthorized Charges.
Card detail

Short Review of Best Credit Cards for 0% APR

NameBest forBalance Transfer intro APR periodRewards RateApply
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.49
Cash Back, No Annual Fee, Daily use0% Introductory APR for the first 15 months that your account is open
  • 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase.
  • Learn more
    on our partner’s site
    Unique Platinum
    3.1
    None
  • $25 With the Unique Platinum Card you’ll also get $25 in Reward Dollars every month that you can use to save in your choice of over 500,000 ways.
  • Apply now
    On Uniquecardservices‘s website
    Chase Freedom Unlimited®
    5
    Cash Back, 0 APR, No Annual Fee, Daily use0% Intro APR for the first 15 months that your Account is open
  • 5% Cash Back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
  • 3% Cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services.
  • 3% Cash Back on drugstore purchases.
  • 1.5% Cash Back on all other purchases.
  • Learn more
    Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
    4.18
    Cash Back, Gas, 0 APR, No Annual Fee, Families, Shopping, Groceries0% Introductory APR for the first 15 months from the date of account opening on balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening
  • 3% Cash Back on groceries at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
  • 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
  • 2% Cash Back on gas at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
  • 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
  • Learn more
    Citi Simplicity®
    3.5
    0 APR, Single mom0% Introductory APR for 21 months from date of first transfer when transfers are completed within 4 months from date of account opening
  • This card doesn't offer cash back, miles or points.
  • Learn more
    Chase Freedom Flex℠
    5
    Cash Back, 0 APR, No Annual Fee, Daily use0% Intro APR for the first 15 months that your Account is open
  • 5% Cash Back on up to $1,500 on combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate.
  • 5% Cash Back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
  • 3% Cash Back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services.
  • 3% Cash Back on drugstore purchases.
  • 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.
  • Learn more
    Citi Diamond Preferred®
    3.71
    0 APR, No Annual Fee0% Introductory APR for 21 months from date of first transfer when transfers are completed within 4 months from date of account opening
  • This card doesn't offer cash back, miles or points.
  • Learn more
    U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
    3.74
    0 APR, No Annual Fee0% Introductory APR for the first 21 billing cycles for balances transferred within 60 days from account opening
  • This card doesn't offer cash back, miles or points.
  • Learn more
    American Express® Cash Magnet®
    4.36
    Cash Back, 0 APR0% Introductory APR for the first 15 months from the date of account opening on balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening
  • 1.5% Earn unlimited Cash Back on all purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
  • Learn more

    Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

    If you want a simple, flat-rate rewards card with an intro offer on purchases, the Capital One Quicksilver offers exactly that. You’ll get a 15-month intro APR on purchases and transfers (the ongoing rate is 19.99% - 29.99%). The rewards program consists of a 1.5 percent cash back rate on all purchases and a $200 welcome bonus (once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening).

    Read more about Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

    Chase Freedom Unlimited®

    With Chase Freedom Unlimited® you’ll get 15 months to pay off your purchase with 0% APR (20.49% - 29.24% Variable after). This card will also earn you great rewards, including a 5% on travel (only if purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards), 3% in restaurants and drugstores, and 1.5% on everything else. On top of that, there's a $200 sign-up bonus too (after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months).

    Read more about Chase Freedom Unlimited®

    Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

    The Blue Cash Everyday® card would be of great use to families with its generous cash back rates on groceries and gas. Not only they’ll earn rewards by going on with their usual everyday purchases, but the 15-months 0% APR offer will also help them with their next big purchase. After the intro period, there’s a 19.24% - 29.99% APR.

    Read more about Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

    Citi Simplicity®

    As Citi says, this card is keeping it simple – without an annual fee, penalty fees, and late fees, but with a great 0% APR offer for 12 months on purchases and 21 months on balance transfers. After the introductory period, the APR is 19.24% - 29.99%. The lack of penalty and late fees is a useful feature for anyone paying off a debt, however this card doesn’t offer rewards. So, it doesn’t provide much long-term value and there’s no reason to keep it after the intro period.

    Read more about Citi Simplicity®

    Chase Freedom Flex℠

    If you want to earn superb rewards while paying zero interest on purchases, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ will give you exactly that. You’ll get 15 months 0% intro APR for purchases and transfers (20.49% - 29.24% Variable after). Each quarter you'll earn 5% in a different bonus category (capped at $1,500 per quarter) and there is also 5% cash back on Lyft and travel booked through Chase Ultimate, 3% on dining out and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases. For the $200 sign-up bonus you'll only need to spend $500 in the first three months.

    Read more about Chase Freedom Flex℠

    Citi Diamond Preferred®

    The Citi Diamond Preferred® credit card’s features are very similar to its sister card, the Citi Simplicity®. Except with this one, it's a bit less simple as it has late and penalty fees. Despite its extensive 0% APR intro period (12 months for purchases and 21 months for balance transfers), if you are careless with your payments, it can cost you up to a $40 late fee every time, and its penalty APR can get as high as 29.99%. The regular APR on this card is 18.24% - 28.99%.

    Read more about Citi Diamond Preferred®

    U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card

    The US bank Visa® Platinum is definitely the best card when it comes to intro APR offers for balance transfers and purchases. The 0% APR period is the longest one out there - an unmatched 18 billing cycles (18.74% - 29.74% after). However, only those with excellent credit should apply for it.

    Read more about U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card

    American Express® Cash Magnet®

    You’ll get three things with the American Express® Cash Magnet®: a solid 15-month 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers, a flat 1.5% cash back rate on all purchases, and a nice welcome offer. The regular APR after the intro period is 19.24% - 29.99%. You can put your next large purchase on this card, but be careful because there is also a 29.99% penalty APR if you miss a payment or it’s returned.

    Read more about American Express® Cash Magnet®

    Understanding interest rates and APRs

    You’ve probably noticed that the terms interest rate and APR are used interchangeably when it comes to credit cards. These two are not usually the same, except when we talk about credit cards. We understand it can be confusing, so let’s clear that up. The interest rate is simply the interest charges for your balance. In contrast, the APR is the total cost of borrowing, the interest PLUS all other fees that you'll pay for the loan. For example, mortgage loans have an origination fee, so the lenders have to disclose that fee in the loan's APR. Credit cards are more straightforward with their fees, as all are already separately disclosed (annual fee, cash advance fee, etc.). So in this case, the interest rate is the same as the annual percentage rate (APR).

    By far, we’ve only mentioned balance transfer and purchase APRs, but credit cards have other types of APRs too. Generally, you’ll find the following types of APRs:

    • Purchase APR – the rate you pay for everyday purchases with your credit card.
    • Balance transfer APR – the rate you’ll pay if you transfer a balance from another credit card (8% - 25%).
    • Introductory APR – special rate offered to new cardholders, usually for balance transfers, purchases, or both. You’ll pay 0% interest for a set period of time, but remember that once this period ends, the regular APRs kick in.
    • Cash advance APR – the rate you’ll pay if you borrow cash with your card from an ATM (around 25%).
    • Penalty APR – the rate that’ll be applied if you are late with your payment (up to 29.99%).

    As you can see, credit card interest rates can be quite high. So, how do credit card issuers set these rates? You must have noticed that usually the word 'variable' is written next to each card's APR. This means that this card’s APR varies based on the prime rate. The prime rate is the interest rate that banks give to the most creditworthy customers. If this rate goes up, your APR will follow and go up too.

    However, the main factor that'll determine what APR you'll get is your credit score. This tells the credit card companies a lot about how you managed money in the past. For example, whether you've paid your bills on time, and the amount of debt you owe. So, if you've been responsible regarding your debt and payments, you can probably expect to get an APR that’s closer to the lower limit. However, if your credit score is less-than-perfect, you might want to hold back from borrowing on your credit card.

    Although credit cards with introductory APR offers can be of great value and potentially save you hundreds of dollars, after that period ends, the regular APRs, which are really high, will start applying. Depending on the card, the intro period can also end early if you fail to make the minimum monthly payment even once and can suddenly get very expensive since you’ll have to pay late and penalty fees. The minimum monthly payment is the amount that you have to pay each month so that the credit card company doesn’t mark your account as “past due.”

    We do recommend paying an amount that's above your minimum payment, preferably the total amount due. Paying the minimum amount will only save you from paying late fees, but you'll still have to pay interest on the remaining balance. To give you an idea of how costly interest on credit cards can be, consider the following example: You want to purchase a new refrigerator for your home and it costs around $5,000. You can’t pay it upfront, so you decide to put it on your credit card. The interest rate is 16.15% (U.S. average) and you plan to pay it off in total over the course of 12 months, in equal installments. This is how would that look like:

    Total Principal Total Interest Monthly Payment Total Cost
    $5,000 $413 $492 $5,491

    For an appliance that costs $5,000, you’ll have to pay a $413 interest. But if you get a new credit card with a 0% APR on purchases for at least 12 months you can only pay the principal. And the money you'd otherwise pay for interest, you can now use to pay for the refrigerator’s installment.

    To sum up, if you want to avoid or reduce the interest cost on credit cards, start with taking advantage of the intro APR offers. As long as you make at least the minimum monthly payments, the 0% rate will keep applying. When the offer ends, be aware of the ongoing APR and try to pay your bill in full, every month. Credit cards will usually give you (at least) 21-day grace period after each statement close date, during which you can pay your balance without interest. Try not to carry a balance from month to month, as that way you can easily accumulate a lot of interest that can potentially cost you hundreds of dollars, as we explained above.

    How do 0% APR offers work?

    During the introductory APR period, an APR of 0% is applied, which means you won't have to pay interest on new purchases or balance transfers (or both – depends on the card).

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    The introductory period varies among different credit cards and it usually lasts between 6 and 20 months. The student cards from Discover (Discover it® Student Cash Back and Discover it® Student chrome) have a 6-month 0% APR period on purchases. Although it’s the shortest intro APR offer, it’s still a great benefit for a student card. While the US bank Visa® Platinum holds the throne for the lengthiest intro APR period - 20 billing cycles.

    What’s the best way to use a 0% APR credit card?

    If you have a balance on a high-interest credit card and want to save money by making a balance transfer, a credit card with a 0% APR offer on balance transfers will help. While a credit card with a 0% APR offer on purchases will benefit you if you're planning an expensive purchase and currently either don't have the cash for that or don't want to take from your savings funds. With the right card, you can pay off your purchase interest-free.

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    If you want to have a break from interest not only on purchases, but also balance transfers, you can go for a card that has an APR offer for both, like the Wells Fargo Platinum Card.

    Whether you get a 0% APR credit card for a purchase or a balance transfer, the best way to use it is to pay back the amount owed in full before the introductory period ends.

    How to choose a 0% APR credit card?

    We’ll give you a short guideline that will help you choose the credit card that best suits your needs:

    1. What’s your need? – A purchase, balance transfer, or both?
    2. A long enough intro APR period – Think about the amount of your purchase or balance and how long you’ll need to pay it off. A long enough period is one during which you can pay back everything you owe. Always go for a longer period. For example, if you think that you’ll need around 15 months to pay off the balance or purchase, still go for a card that has an 18-month 0% APR offer.
    3. Consider the ongoing APRs – However long, the intro period will once end, so think about the APR you’ll have to pay when that happens.
    4. Long-term value and other benefits – Many of the cards on our list, not only offer 0% APR, but also rewards. You should look beyond the intro period and think about how the card can bring you additional value. Here you can find the best credit cards for rewards.

    Why do credit cards offer 0% APRs?

    As these 0% APR offers sound great to you, you're probably wondering what's in it for the credit card companies. Well, to start with, by offering these intro interest-free periods they attract more customers to sign-up for the card. Also, as you’re not allowed to make a balance transfer on another card from the same issuer, with these offers, credit card companies “steal” customers from competitors while charging you a balance transfer fee.

    Lastly, they are also counting on some cardholders to be late with a payment or miss one or more and will have to pay high penalty fees. Some will fail to pay off the whole amount due during the intro period and will have to keep paying when the regular APR is applied.

    So, we are rooting for you to be smart and prevent them from profiting from you, by managing your credit card responsibly and keeping in mind all the tips we mentioned throughout this article.

    FAQ

    Can I extend the 0% introductory period on a credit card?

    It depends, but it's highly unlikely. As we said, card issuers profit from your interest payments. However, if you've been making all your payments on time, you can call and ask for an extension on the intro period. Even if you don’t succeed to prolong the 0% APR period, maybe you can negotiate a lower interest rate.

    What credit score should I have in order to increase my approval odds for a 0% APR credit card?

    Generally, you’ll need a good to excellent credit score to qualify for a 0% APR credit card. A credit score of at least 670 is recommended.

    What are other credit cards to consider?

    Other good credit cards with 0% APR offers that didn’t make our list are: the Discover it® Student Cash Back (0% APR on purchases for 6 months, 18.24% - 27.24% Variable thereafter) and the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express® (0% APR on purchases for 12 months, 19.24% - 29.99% Variable thereafter).

    How do I find out which APR will I get on a particular credit card?

    As we said earlier in the text, the better your credit score - the lower the APR you’ll get. However, the exact APR will be disclosed after you get approved for the card.
    Hanna VolkavaHanna Volkava

    Financial and product expert

    hv@myfin.us