Balance Transfer Strategy: The Complete Guide

Credit card debt at 20%+ APR is brutal. Balance transfers—moving debt to a 0% APR card—can save thousands and accelerate your payoff.

Here’s how to use them strategically.

Best Balance Transfer Cards

Card	0% Period	Fee	Regular APR
Citi Diamond Preferred	21 months	5%	17.24-27.99%
Wells Fargo Reflect	21 months	5%	17.24-29.24%
Citi Double Cash	18 months	3%	19.24-29.24%
Chase Slate Edge	18 months	3%	17.74-26.49%

Balance Transfer Rules

Do:

• Calculate if the fee is worth the interest savings
• Have a payoff plan before transferring
• Pay more than the minimum monthly
• Set reminders before the 0% period ends
• Stop using the original card

Don’t:

• Transfer and then rack up new debt
• Miss payments (can void the 0% APR)
• Ignore the end date
• Keep transferring forever without paying down

The Payoff Plan

Before transferring, calculate:

Monthly payment needed = Balance ÷ 0% months

$5,000 ÷ 18 months = $278/month to pay off completely

If you can’t afford that payment, you’ll have a balance when 0% ends—and regular APR kicks in.

Last updated: January 2026 Affiliate disclosure: ShortcutBest may earn a commission when you apply through our links.