Moving Debt to Buy Time
A balance transfer card moves existing credit card debt to a new card with a 0% introductory APR, typically 15 to 21 months. During that window, every dollar you pay goes to principal. No interest. The strategy works when you have a realistic plan to pay off the balance before the promo ends.
The Credit Card Calculator on DebtCalc helps you figure out the required monthly payment: take your balance, divide by the number of promo months, and that's your target.
Chase Slate Edge
0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers. Annual fee: $0. Transfer fee: 3% in the first 60 days, then 5%. Chase Slate's strength is the long promo window, 21 months gives you almost two years of interest-free payoff. It also offers an automatic annual review for a potential APR reduction. Best for larger balances that need maximum time.
Citi Simplicity
0% intro APR for 21 months on transfers and 12 months on purchases. No annual fee. No late fees ever, a unique feature. Transfer fee: 3% in the first four months, then 5%. The no-late-fee policy provides a safety net if you miss a payment during payoff, you won't get hit with a $40 penalty, though interest still applies after the promo. Best for borrowers who want the longest window with a safety net.
BankAmericard
0% intro APR for 21 months on transfers. No annual fee. Transfer fee: 3%. Straightforward with no standout perks beyond the promo period. The ongoing APR after the intro period tends to be competitive. Best for Bank of America customers who want to keep their accounts consolidated.
The Real Comparison
All three offer 21-month 0% windows and no annual fee. The differences are marginal: Citi Simplicity's no-late-fee policy, Chase Slate's APR review, BankAmericard's slightly lower ongoing rate. Pick based on your existing banking relationship and approval odds. The math is nearly identical.