Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards to Tame High-Interest Debt in 2025

If you’re drowning in credit card interest, a balance transfer credit card can be your lifeline. These cards let you move high-interest debt from one card to another often with a 0% introductory APR for a set period. That means you can pay down what you owe faster without wasting hundreds (or thousands) on interest.

But not all balance transfer offers are created equal. In 2025, with interest rates still elevated and banks tightening approvals, it’s more important than ever to choose the right card based on your financial profile.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best balance transfer credit cards available this year. We’ve compared 0% APR periods, balance transfer fees, credit score requirements, and stand-out features so you can find the one that helps you get ahead, not fall further behind.

1. Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

Best for: Longest 0% APR period

Intro APR: 0% for 21 months on balance transfers
Balance Transfer Fee: 5% (min $5)
Regular APR: 18.24%–28.99% (variable)
Credit Needed: Good to excellent (690+)

Why we like it:
This card offers one of the longest 0% APR periods you’ll find in 2025 nearly two full years to pay off your balance. That gives you serious breathing room if you’re trying to tackle a large amount of debt.

Drawbacks:
It doesn’t earn rewards and has a relatively steep 5% transfer fee, so it’s best for people focused purely on debt repayment.

2. Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

Best for: Flexible repayment with a long intro APR

Intro APR: 0% for 18 months, with up to 3 months extension (total 21 months) for on-time payments
Balance Transfer Fee: 5% (min $5)
Regular APR: 18.24%–29.24% (variable)
Credit Needed: Good to excellent (700+)

Why we like it:
If you’re disciplined about making payments, you can earn up to 3 extra months of 0% APR—perfect for those who need a little more time. There’s no annual fee, and it includes cellphone protection if you pay your bill with the card.

Drawbacks:
It lacks rewards and has a similar 5% transfer fee, so again, this is best for debt repayment rather than daily spending.

3. BankAmericard® Credit Card

Best for: Simple, no-frills balance transfers

Intro APR: 0% for 18 billing cycles (about 18 months)
Balance Transfer Fee: 3% (min $10)
Regular APR: 16.24%–26.24% (variable)
Credit Needed: Good to excellent (680+)

Why we like it:
With one of the lowest balance transfer fees on the list, this is a cost-effective option. It’s also straightforward—no confusing perks or reward structures, just a solid 0% APR offer to help you knock out your debt.

Drawbacks:
No rewards, limited extra features, and not ideal for ongoing spending once the promo ends.

4. Chase Slate Edge℠

Best for: Credit improvement plus balance transfer

Intro APR: 0% for 18 months on purchases and transfers
Balance Transfer Fee: 3% (if made within 60 days of account opening)
Regular APR: 20.49%–29.24% (variable)
Credit Needed: Fair to good (660+)

Why we like it:
This card is geared toward borrowers looking to improve their credit while paying off debt. If you make on-time payments and spend responsibly, you can get automatic APR reductions and credit line increases in the first year.

Drawbacks:
The ongoing APR is high, so make sure to clear your balance before the intro period ends.

5. U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card

Best for: Low ongoing APR if you can’t pay it all off

Intro APR: 0% for 18 billing cycles
Balance Transfer Fee: 3% (min $5)
Regular APR: 18.74%–29.74% (variable)
Credit Needed: Good (680+)

Why we like it:
This card provides solid value for people who may not be able to pay off their balance entirely within 18 months. The low-end regular APR is more forgiving than many competitors if you carry a balance after the promo.

Drawbacks:
No rewards or other perks—but that’s common for this category of card.

What to Look for in a Balance Transfer Card (2025 Edition)

With tighter credit standards and rising interest rates, here’s what to prioritize this year:

0% APR Duration

Longer is better aim for 18+ months if you have a significant balance.
Some cards allow extensions for on-time payments.

Balance Transfer Fees

Typically range from 3% to 5%
A lower fee makes a big difference if you’re transferring a large balance (e.g., 5% on $10,000 = $500)

Approval Requirements

Most cards require a credit score of 680 or higher
If your score is below that, consider a credit builder card or work on utilization before applying

Timing

You typically need to complete the balance transfer within 60–90 days to qualify for the promo rate.

Perks

Some balance transfer cards include purchase APR promos, cell phone protection, or credit line increases as a bonus.

How to Use Balance Transfers Without Hurting Your Credit Score

Used wisely, a balance transfer can help improve your credit by:

Lowering your utilization ratio, which boosts your score
Paying off debt faster, reducing the chance of missed payments

But be careful here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

Don’t Close the Old Card

After transferring your balance, keep the old card open (as long as there’s no annual fee). Closing it reduces your available credit and could hurt your utilization.

Don’t Miss a Single Payment

Missing even one payment can void your 0% APR offer and lead to penalties or higher rates. Set up auto-pay or calendar reminders.

Don’t Max Out the New Card

Aim to use no more than 30% of your new card’s credit limit after the transfer. This keeps your utilization healthy and signals responsible behavior.

Don’t Treat It Like Free Money

This card is a tool not a blank check. Avoid adding new charges that increase your debt while you’re trying to pay it down.

Balance transfers can be a smart, strategic move but only if paired with discipline. The best card for you is the one that matches your timeline, credit score, and commitment to becoming debt-free.

If you’re planning a transfer, now’s the time to prepare. Next, learn exactly how to protect your score in the process: How to Use Balance Transfers Without Hurting Your Credit Score.