Anúncios
You are looking for a credit card with 0% APR, so you don’t have to worry about the high interest rates of most cards.
However, you will see that in the analysis of the alternatives, we are not only looking for a credit card with 0% APR. We selected the options, thinking about those that offer advantages beyond the zero interest rate.
That way, in the end, you will know all the details about the alternatives, thus being able to make the best choice in the market for your case. That way, you will get a credit card with 0% APR, but it delivers much more than just that.
What does 0% APR really mean?
APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate. Basically, it’s the annual interest charged on your balance.
Thus, 0% APR, means that for a certain period, the bank will not charge interest on your purchases or balance transfers.
Anúncios
There are two types of agreements, being the 0% real APR and deferred interest.
- The 0% real APR: does not charge interest until the promotion ends, and when it does, only the remaining balance starts accruing interest.
- Deferred interest: in this case, you do not pay interest if you pay off the entire balance before the deadline.
09 Best credit card with 0% APR
Below are the top picks for this year, combining long promotional windows, fair fees, and solid issuers.
1. Wells Fargo Reflect Card®
If you need maximum time to breathe, Wells Fargo Reflect® is ideal, as the 0% APR period is up to 21 months.
Anúncios
In practice, it works very well for those who want to consolidate balances and set up a repayment schedule without the pressure of interest.
The regular APR after the promotional period is variable (17.24%–28.99%), so pay attention at the end of the promotion period.
2. Citi Simplicity® Card
Citi Simplicity® is a card with no annual fee, no late fee, and no penalty APR. The attraction is to combine 12 months in purchases with 21 months in transfers at 0% APR. As long as the transfer is made within the first four months.
There is a transfer fee (usually 3% to 5%, with a minimum in dollars). So it’s worth doing the math to see if the savings in interest pay off, in debts with high APR, it almost always pays off.
3. BankAmericard® Credit Card
BankAmericard® delivers 18 months of 0% APR on purchases and transfers, with no annual fee and with the advantage of No Penalty APR (a delay does not raise your rate).
Transfers need to take place within 60 days to ensure introductory conditions, and the transfer fee starts at 3% in that period, then rises to 4%.
Undoubtedly, it is a good choice for those who prioritize stability, predictability, and low friction.
4. Discover it® Cash Back (Credit card with 0% APR)
Discover it® Cash Back offers APR exemption for 15 months. So, use the 0% as a bridge to discharge.
There is no annual fee, which keeps the cost predictable.
In terms of reputation, Discover ranks well in surveys. Although reports of inflexibility in late fees emerge on complaint sites, this is worrying.
5. Capital One’s Quicksilver
Capital One Quicksilver will give you 0% APR for 15 months on purchases and transfers, 1.5% cashback on everything. Therefore, it is great for those who prefer not to manage categories and want a cash back.
A recurring bonus (such as $200 after $500 in 3 months, as per offers).
In addition, it has no annual fee and a transfer fee of around 3% in the initial period (which can reach 4% in future promotions).
6. Citi Double Cash® Card (Credit card with 0% APR)
If your plan is to consolidate now and hold for the long term, Double Cash® makes sense.
At first, it will have 0% APR for 18 months on balance transfers (not purchases). After this period, the rate is still low, being 2% on all purchases (1% on purchase + 1% on payment).
No annual fee, and with a transfer fee starting at 3% (later rising to 5%).
7. Wells Fargo Active Cash Card®
Do you want cash back and still an interest-free breather?
Active Cash® collects 0% APR for 12 months (purchases and transfers) and will still have unlimited 2% on all purchases and welcome bonuses.
In addition, this card does not charge an annual fee and no fee is charged for eligible transfers in the first 120 days.
Post-promotional APR is variable (19.24%–29.24%).
8. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Freedom Unlimited® offers excellent rewards, especially cashback, being:
- 5% on trips via the Chase portal;
- 3% in restaurants;
- 1.5% on other purchases.
And also with 0% competitive APR promotional period.
Its biggest attraction is the Chase ecosystem, being an app where you can manage your finances. In addition, being able to combine points with premium cards, if it makes sense in the future.
Was this card the most interesting to you? Check out the Chase Freedom Unlimited review, where the card is covered in its entirety, with highlights. This way, you’ll be able to make a good choice.
9. Blue Cash Preferred® do American Express
Blue Cash Preferred® is ideal for those who spend a lot at grocery stores in the U.S. In it you will have a cash back program as follows:
- 6% in groceries;
- 3% on fuel;
- 1% in the rest.
However, this card will have an annual fee, in the amount of US$ 95.00.
The APR will be zeroed out in the first 12 months, after which it will have a cost ranging from 20.24% to 29.24%.
Conclusion (Credit card with 0% APR)
Choosing the right credit card with 0% annual interest has less to do with which card has a longer exemption period. And more with which one fits your financial reality.
For some, it’s Wells Fargo Reflect’s ultra-long-term 21 months. For others, the most attractive option is Discover it® or Chase Freedom Unlimited®.
Therefore, you should analyze each one calmly, to be able to make your choice accurately.
So, before you make your choice, ask yourself, “What is my plan for paying off the debt before time runs out?” Answer honestly and you will know if a card with a 0% interest rate is your golden ticket or just a brilliant distraction.