If you want to shift debt to a ‘0%’ balance transfer credit card, you're usually asked to pay a percentage of the debt upfront in the form of a transfer fee, which is the lender's way of guaranteeing it makes some money off you.
The longest interest-free deals on the market (up to 31 months at the time of publishing) generally charge hefty fees of around 3%. To put that in monetary terms, you could end up paying a fee of £90 if you’re looking to switch a £3,000 debt.
While using a balance transfer card is far cheaper than letting debt rack up costly interest, there is an even cheaper option out there.
Fee-free balance transfer cards allow you to move debt without paying a penny. But what's the catch?
The 0% periods on offer are understandably shorter than their fee-charging rivals but will buy you vital time to clear, or reduce, your debt without paying an extra penny.
In this article, we look at the truly free balance transfer cards on the market.
Please note that these cards are generally reserved for those with the best credit score and a minimum annual income is usually required.
The best fee-free cards available right now
|
Credit card |
0% period on balance transfers |
Representative APR after 0% period ends |
|
NatWest/RBS Balance Transfer Card* |
19 months |
23.9% |
|
HSBC Balance Transfer Card** |
16 months |
23.9% |
*No balance transfer fee applies to transfers in the first three months of account opening.
**No balance transfer fee applies to transfers in the first two months of account opening.
NatWest/RBS offers the longest interest-free period at 19 months, but the balance transfer card is only available to those who earn at least £10,000 a year, and you’ll have to transfer any balances in the first three months of account opening to avoid a fee.
Elsewhere, HSBC offers 16 months interest-free with its fee-free Balance Transfer Card. You’ll have to transfer any balances in the first two months of account opening to avoid a fee.
Will you qualify for the best deals?
As you can imagine, you’ve got to have a stellar credit rating to get the best deal.
If your score is poor, it’s a good idea to give it a boost. Find out more with this guide to improving your credit rating.
Still not found the right card for you? View our complete guide to credit cards to see all your options.