0% Introductory APR Credit Cards for Purchases & Balance Transfers
Looking for credit cards that offer 0% introductory APR? These cards give you a period of interest-free borrowing, either for purchases or balance transfers, allowing you to save money and manage your credit efficiently. Whether you want to pay down existing debt or make a large purchase without interest, the right card can make a big difference.
Below, we break down the types of 0% APR offers, how they work, and which cards might be the best fit for your financial needs.
Featured Card for 0% Introductory APR on Purchases & Balance Transfers
Check Out the Chase Freedom Unlimited® Card
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® Card is a strong option for those looking for a low introductory APR and no annual fee. It offers a 0% intro APR period on purchases and balance transfers, making it a smart choice for financing larger expenses or managing short-term balances.
In addition to its low interest benefits, this card also provides cash back rewards, giving you extra value while keeping borrowing costs low.
How 0% Introductory APR Works
Balance Transfers: Some cards offer 0% APR on balances transferred from other cards for a limited time, typically 12–21 months. This can save you hundreds of dollars in interest if used strategically.
Purchases: Other cards offer 0% APR on new purchases for a set period, giving you a chance to finance big expenses without paying interest immediately.
Many cards offer both balance transfer and purchase 0% APR periods, so you get flexibility depending on your needs.
Important Considerations
While 0% introductory APR cards can save money, it’s important to:
- Pay attention to the duration of the introductory period.
- Understand balance transfer fees, which may apply.
- Pay off your balance before the APR increases to avoid interest charges.
How to Choose the Right 0% APR Card
- Determine Your Goal: Are you looking to transfer a balance or finance a purchase? Some cards specialize in one or the other, while others cover both.
- Check the Introductory Period: Longer 0% APR periods provide more time to pay off debt without interest.
- Consider Fees: Look for balance transfer fees, annual fees, and late payment penalties.
- Evaluate Rewards: Some 0% APR cards also offer cash back or points, adding extra value.
Frequently Asked Questions: 0% Introductory APR Credit Cards
Q: Can I transfer a balance and make purchases at 0% APR at the same time?
A: Some cards allow both, but not all. Check the terms carefully to see if the 0% APR applies to both balance transfers and new purchases.
Q: Are there any fees for balance transfers?
A: Yes, many cards charge a fee, usually 3–5% of the amount transferred. Compare fees when selecting a card.
Q: How long does the 0% APR period last?
A: It varies by card. Introductory periods range from 12 to 21 months for purchases, balance transfers, or both.
Q: What happens after the introductory APR ends?
A: The card’s standard APR applies to any remaining balance. Plan to pay off debt before the period ends to avoid interest charges.
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.49% - 27.24%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
- There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
- No Annual Fee - our low intro rates and all the benefits don't come with a yearly charge.
- Buy now and pay later. Split your payment for eligible purchases of $75 or more into a fixed payment with Citi® Flex Pay.
- Get free access to your FICO® Score online.
Citi Strata℠ Card
- Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
- Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
- Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
- Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
- No Annual Fee
Found this guide helpful? Bookmark it for future reference as you continue your financial journey!
FICO® Credit Scores
A FICO® Score is a proprietary credit score created by the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO). About 90% of top U.S. lenders use it to make lending decisions.
FICO® Score Ranges:
- Exceptional: 800–850
- Very Good: 740–799
- Good: 670–739
- Fair: 580–669
- Poor: 300–579
FICO categorizes scores as Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good, and Exceptional.
What is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number (300–850) predicting your creditworthiness. Lenders use it to evaluate risk and determine rates and terms for credit.
Why it matters: A higher score can help you qualify for loans and lower interest rates. A lower score can lead to higher borrowing costs or application denials.
FICO® Credit Score Facts
- Three-Digit Number: Summarizes your credit risk.
- Range: 300–850; higher scores = lower risk.
- Data Source: Uses your credit reports from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
- Industry Standard: Lenders rely on FICO for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards.
Note: Credit scores reflect your creditworthiness but do not guarantee approval for any credit product.
Security Notice: All participating issuers use secure application systems protected by Transport Layer Security (TLS) encryption to help protect your information.
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