Low-interest credit cards are the unsung heroes of the financial world. They offer a lifeline to individuals seeking to pay down debt without being crushed under high interest rates.
As a personal finance expert, I’ve seen countless people turn their finances around with the help of these versatile cards. But how do you know which card fits your needs perfectly? Don’t sweat it – I’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll delve into the best low-interest credit cards available in September 2023. With options catering to different credit scores, reward preferences, and unique financial situations, you’ll find a valuable tool to tackle debt and optimize your financial future.
We’ll be looking at a variety of cards, like the Wells Fargo Reflect Card, the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card, and the BankAmericard credit card, to name a few. Each card boasts attractive 0% introductory rates and varying perks tailored to specific needs, such as college students or those seeking bonus rewards. So, discover the lowest interest rate for a credit card to help manage your spending and achieve financial harmony—no more guesswork, no more stress – just well-informed decision-making.
| Card Name | Interest Rate | Annual Fee | Balance Transfer Fee | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Freedom Unlimited | 0% intro APR for 15 months, then 14.99% – 23.74% | $0 | 5% of the amount transferred | Cash back rewards, No expiration on rewards |
| Citi Simplicity | 0% intro APR for 18 months, then 14.74% – 24.74% | $0 | 3% of the amount transferred | No late fees, No penalty rate, No annual fee |
| BankAmericard | 0% intro APR for 18 billing cycles, then 12.99% – 22.99% | $0 | 3% of the amount transferred | No penalty APR, Access to credit score |
| Capital One Quicksilver | 0% intro APR for 15 months, then 15.49% – 25.49% | $0 | 3% of the amount transferred | Cash back rewards, No foreign transaction fees |
| Discover It | 0% intro APR for 14 months, then 11.99% – 22.99% | $0 | 3% of the amount transferred | Cash back match, No foreign transaction fees |
Full List of Editorial Picks: Best 0% APR and Low Interest Credit Cards
1. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Get that dough with the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card! Flat-rate cash-back rewards make this a top choice for users who want simplicity. And to earn cash rewards, of course. With a solid 2% cash back on all purchases, this card is perfect for folks who want a no-nonsense money maker.
See Related: Best Auto Loans for Tesla: Top Financing Options
2. Chase Freedom Unlimited® Card
Not to be left behind, Chase Freedom Unlimited® has got your back with unlimited 1.5% cash back on everything. Combine that with your opportunity for an extra 5% cash back on travel booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program, and you’re gonna be flying high, trust me! I’m a big fan of the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program.
3. BankAmericard® Credit Card
If you’re looking for balance transfer options, check out the BankAmericard® Credit Card. With an intro 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers during the introductory period (made within the first 60 days), this card is a go-to for folks wanting to get their finances back on track. There’s no annual fee, although there is a 3% foreign transaction fee, so it’s not the best low-interest credit card if you spend a lot of time out of the country.
4. Chase Freedom Flex℠
Chase Freedom Flex℠ is where it’s at for rotating bonus categories. Score 5% cash back on quarterly categories up to $1,500 spent. Plus, it’s got features we all love, like 3% at restaurants and drugstores and 1% on everything else. That diversity, though!
5. Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card is killin’ it with a unique intro APR period for purchases and balance transfers. Depending on your account performance, you could get a 0% intro APR for 15 to 21 months!
See Related: Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit to Rebuild Your Score
6. U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
Hold up – U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card swoops in with an epic 0% intro APR period on purchases and balance transfers for 20 billing cycles. This bad boy’s ideal for peeps who need time to pay off large amounts without interest goin’ wild.
7. Chase Slate Edge℠
Do you want to start working on that credit score? Take a look at Chase Slate Edge℠. It’s designed to help you establish a healthy credit profile with features like automatic credit limit increases and lower APR opportunities if you meet the criteria. Sweet!
8. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
Travelin’ fiends, listen up! With the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card, you’ll score 1.5 points per dollar spent. Do you want to go from point A to point B with a smile? Use this card and redeem points for travel expenses. Get ready to pack those bags!
9. Citi Custom Cash® Card
Custom? More like CASH-tom! This card offers 5% cash back on your top eligible spending category per billing cycle (up to $500 spent). Combine that with 1% cash back on everything else, and you’ve got some serious reward action.
10. Citi® Double Cash Card
Why should I choose this card for the Citi Double Cash Card? You can now pay interest-free balance payments up to 2025. Double Cash is a premium-quality cash-back program with an introductory 1% cash-back guarantee when you spend and another 1% when you buy a card. As good as Citi Double Cash rewards may seem, its lack of a 1% intro rate for the purchase could give you some pauses.
11. Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
Why are low-interest card options important for transferring balances? The card offers 21 months free balance transfer and 12 months free balance transfer. The variable APR is then 15.99% to 25.99%, depending upon credit score.
12. Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Wishin’ for a card that’s as speedy as you? The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card gives unlimited 1.5% cash back on each purchase. Plus, the signup bonus could be just what you need to push your rewards game to the next level!
13. Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card
Bank of America® ain’t messing around with the Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card. Nab 1.5% cash back on every purchase with no expiration date, and Bank of America Preferred Rewards customers bump that up to a 75% rewards bonus. It’s one of the best low-interest credit cards.
14. Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is the king of cash back for your daily spending. We’re talking 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, 2% at U.S. gas stations and select U.S. department stores, and 1% on everything else.
See Related: Best Banks for Low-Income Earners
15. Discover It® Cash Back
Discover’s got your back with the Discover It® Cash Back card. You can grab 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, like grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and Amazon (up to $1,500 quarterly maximum). They’ll even match your first-year cash back to sweeten the deal. First impressions matter, ya know!
There’s a 3% intro balance transfer fee. They’ve also got a version for airline miles. Both cards offer 0% intro APR for 15 months on unused purchases. Discover travel cards are worth 1.5 miles per purchase, and you don’t have to worry about an annual fee or foreign transaction fees.
16. Discover It® Chrome
Like the previous card, you’re looking at getting cash back with first-year cash rewards. You can earn 2% cash back on categories like gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 quarterly maximum) and unlimited cashback match on all other purchases. There’s no annual fee and 0% intro APR for 15 months.
17. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
Last but not least, the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card rocks a $200 cash rewards signup bonus after $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days. Plus, it packs a punch with 3% cash back in your chosen category and even throws in 2% back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs. Talk about a win-win!
Other Resources
When looking for low-interest credit cards, exploring multiple sources and comparing offers is essential. A few cards worth considering include the Wells Fargo Reflect Card, the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card, and the BankAmericard credit card. These cards come with low interest rates and 0% intro APR for different periods, depending on your credit score.
Chase Freedom Unlimited could be right up your alley for folks interested in bonus rewards. There’s also the Citi Simplicity Card and the Citi Diamond Preferred card, both providing generous 0% APR balance transfer promotions for up to 21 months.
Don’t forget to scope out resources like WalletHub, Bankrate, TIME Stamped, and U.S. News for in-depth analysis and expert recommendations. These sites offer crucial info on card features, pros and cons, and tips to help you choose the best low-interest credit card for your needs.
- WalletHub: 6 Best Low-Interest Credit Cards [September 2023]
- Bankrate: Best Low-Interest Credit Cards of September 2023
- TIME Stamped: Best Low-Interest Credit Cards September 2023
- U.S. News: Best Low-Interest Credit Cards of September 2023
Remember to weigh your options carefully and consider fees, perks, and long-term benefits before committing to a low-interest credit card. And don’t forget to haggle with your current card issuer for better rates – sometimes, all it takes is a polite chat with a customer service rep!
See Related: Best Investments for Low-Income Earners
Understanding Interest Rates and APRs
How to Avoid Paying Credit Card Interest Entirely
Pay your statement balance in full each month to skip paying credit card interest. Most credit cards come with a grace period, which lets you avoid interest by making a complete payment before the due date. Don’t let fees creep in: always pay on time!
What’s the Difference Between Interest and APR?
Interest is the cost of borrowing money and is expressed as a percentage of your balance. APR (Annual Percentage Rate) combines interest charges and other fees, representing the total cost of borrowing annually. While interest indicates the cost of money, APR gives you the big picture!
How Do 0% APR Offers Work?
0% intro APR offers are promotions that credit card issuers run, giving new cardholders a break from paying interest on purchases and balance transfers for a set time. That’s typically around 16-21 months, depending on the card. Once the intro period expires, the standard APR kicks in. Use this time wisely to pay off balances, but don’t go wild, buddy!
Glossary of APR Terms
- APR: Annual Percentage Rate, the combo of interest and fees charged for borrowing.
- Introductory APR: A temporary low or 0% APR for new cardholders. Enjoy while it lasts!
- Purchase APR: The rate you’re charged when buying stuff.
- Balance Transfer APR: The interest rate applied when moving debt from one card to another.
- Cash Advance APR: The cost of using your credit card for quick cash. Spoiler: it ain’t cheap!
How Credit Card Issuers Set Interest Rates
Issuers typically use the Prime Rate as a base for setting their interest rates. They may increase or decrease the interest rate based on factors such as your credit score, market conditions, or the card type. Better credit score? Lower rate, my friend!
Remember, be wise with credit cards, pay on time, and watch out for those rates!
How Your Credit Score Affects Your Interest Rate
Improving Your Credit to Qualify for a Better Rate
It’s no secret that your credit score plays a vital role in determining the interest rates you’ll be offered for loans and credit cards. The better your credit, the better your chance of snagging a low-interest credit card or loan.
Take steps to improve your credit to make the most of this opportunity. Start by making on-time minimum payments, maintaining a low credit card balance, and avoiding excessive debt.
As you’ll probably notice, all the best low-interest credit cards require excellent credit scores, often between 670 – 850. For many people, that may seem out of reach, whether because they’ve had bad luck with their credit score in the past or they’re new to credit cards in general.
The High Cost of a Higher Interest Rate
When your credit score isn’t top-notch, lenders view you as a riskier borrower, which may lead to higher interest rates. The difference in rates between someone with good credit and someone with poor credit can be significant! For example, with a 17.25% APR, it might take 24 months to pay off credit card debt and cost you $938 in interest charges.
However, with a credit score resulting in a 22.25% APR, you could still pay off the balance in 26 months, but you’d end up paying $1,306 in credit card interest. Yikes!
Reducing Your Interest Costs
If you’re tired of paying high interest rates on your credit card debt, there are ways to reduce your costs and save money. First up, consider asking your credit card issuer for a lower interest rate. This request might do the trick, but be aware that it could also affect your credit score if the issuer conducts a hard inquiry.
Another option is to transfer your high-interest balances to a low-interest credit card. Doing so could save hundreds – or even thousands – of bucks on interest expenses. Just remember the potential impact on your credit score and any fees associated with balance transfers.
In conclusion, improving your credit score will help you qualify for better credit card and loan rates. It will also help you reduce high-interest costs and become debt-free faster. So, invest time fixing your credit and reap the rewards of lower interest rates – your wallet will thank you!
See Related: How to Save Money When You Are Broke
How to Compare 0% and Low-Interest Cards
When looking for the best low-interest credit cards, it’s essential to thoroughly analyze several factors and compare credit cards. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects you should take into account.
0% Intro APR
The introductory APR period determines how long you’ll enjoy 0% interest on your credit card. These offers generally last 12 to 21 months, so ensure you get the most extended 0% intro APR possible.
Ongoing APR
Once the introductory APR period ends, your credit card will revert to an ongoing APR. Lower ongoing interest rates may save you more money in the long run. Look for cards with an ongoing minimum APR of 17.99% or lower.
Purchases and Balance Transfers
Some credit cards allow you to transfer balances from other high-interest credit cards. Ideal cards have a minimal balance transfer fee (typically around 3% of the transferred amount) or none.
Required Credit Profile
Each credit card issuer sets the required credit profile for their products. Ensure you understand if your credit score qualifies for the card you’re interested in. Good credit cards generally require a credit score of 690 or higher.
Penalty Policies
Be aware of any penalties for late payments or returned payments. Identify cards with more lenient policies to avoid heavy interest charges or negative impacts on your credit score. This is especially important if you’re prone to incurring credit card debt or want to save money.
Annual Fee
A credit card with no annual fee can save you money, especially if you don’t plan to utilize rewards or bonuses regularly. However, weigh the pros and cons of having an annual fee, as sometimes cards with fees offer better rewards.
Free Credit Score
Some credit cards provide a free credit score as a perk, which can help monitor your credit health. Free access to credit scores may not be crucial for everyone, but it’s a bonus to consider if you’re worried about your creditworthiness.
Rewards and Bonus Offers
In addition to low interest rates, many credit cards offer rewards programs and bonuses, such as cashback or points. Analyze these incentives to identify options that align with your spending habits and financial goals. If you spend much time overseas, you’ll want to look for a card with no or low foreign transaction fees. If you know you spend a lot on your monthly cell phone bill or online retail purchases, you’ll want a card that rewards those.
Methodology
When selecting the best low-interest credit cards, we’ve got to establish a solid methodology that ensures a transparent and fair assessment. We’ve looked at various factors that contribute to the value of these cards, focusing on key aspects that matter most to cardholders. So, let’s dive right into the deets!
In our evaluation, we made APR a top priority. Lower interest rates save cardholders money, especially those who carry a balance.
A lower APR enables peeps to reduce their interest expenses and pay off their debt sooner. Thus, we focused on cards offering 0% introductory rates or low ongoing APRs.
Next up, we considered the card benefits and rewards. While low APR is a major motivator, a card must have more going for it, right?
We delved into rewards programs, like cash back, points, or miles, as well as extra perks and services. These added goodies help make the card even more enticing and valuable to cardholders.
Fees played another huge role in our methodology. Let’s face it: No one likes getting slapped with random charges.
So, we paid close attention to cards with no or low annual fees, minimal balance transfer fees, and other common charges. The fewer fees, the better these cards look in our expert eyes.
One thing we definitely couldn’t ignore was promotional offers. A 0% introductory rate doesn’t amount to much without a good timeframe to enjoy it. We scoped out cards with longer promotional periods, giving cardholders more time to pay off their balances without getting hit with interest charges.
Finally, credit score requirements had to be taken into account. Different cards cater to different credit score ranges, so it made sense to include cards suitable for people with varying credit histories. This way, we ensure that there’s a low-interest card for you whether you’ve got excellent, good, or fair credit.
With these criteria in mind, we were able to build our list of the best low-interest credit cards, focusing on those offering low APRs and valuable benefits, few fees, generous promotional periods, and flexible credit requirements.
Getting the Lowest Interest Rate for Credit Card
When you score a rad credit card with 0% or low interest, maximizing your benefits is essential, homie. Knocking out debt by transferring balances from other high-interest cards is a wise first move. Most low-interest cards offer 0% APR on balance transfers for a limited time, so get on it! Remember that balance transfer fees might apply, so keep that in mind, pal.
Now, let’s get into rewards. Depending on your card, you might be raking in cash back, points, or miles for your purchases.
Don’t miss out on those perks! Align your spending with the bonus categories to maximize your earnings. Some cards offer up to 5% cash back on selected purchases, while others have a flat-rate cash back across the board. Make sure to redeem those rewards, or they’ll go to waste!
Keep an eye on the fees, yo. Low-interest or 0% APR cards might still charge annual or foreign transaction fees. Shop around for a card that’s best for your lifestyle, and if you’re not too keen on fees, look for a card with a $0 annual fee. This way, you’ll get to keep more of your hard-earned cash!
Lastly, spend wisely and keep track of your purchases. If your card offers 0% APR on purchases, seize the chance to finance big-ticket items or split up expenses without paying extra interest, but don’t overspend, buddy. Monitor your spending habits, pay off balances on time, and enjoy the perks of your low-interest card without sinking into debt.
And there you have it. You can now make the most of your 0% or low-interest credit card. Remember, it’s all about finding the right balance between rewards, fees, and responsible spending. Good luck out there!
What factors should you consider while looking for low-interest credit cards?
When hunting for the ultimate low-interest credit card, peeps should keep their eyes peeled for key factors. Firstly, introductory APR rates make a world of difference. Some cards offer 0% intro rates for a limited time, usually at least 15 months. This gives peeps a head start to save $$$ on interest, especially for large purchases or balance transfers.
Next up, peeps shouldn’t sleep on annual fees. The best low-interest cards often come with a $0 annual fee, so consumers can keep some extra cash in their pocket. No one has time to pay extra for having a card in their wallet.
Another part of the puzzle is credit score requirements. Usually, good credit is required if you wanna score one of those sweet, low-interest deals. Generally, a FICO score of at least 670 will get you through the door.
Don’t forget about rewards programs. Even though the main focus is low-interest rates, some cards still throw in cool perks like cash back, airline miles, or points for everyday purchases. So, keep a lookout for cards that balance low-interest and groovy rewards.
Lastly, remember to check out the ongoing APR. Intro rates may be crucial, but they won’t last forever. Low ongoing interest rates keep the savings party going by reducing the pain of interest charges in the long run.
So, peeps should pay attention to these factors while searching for the perfect low-interest credit card. It’s all about balancing dope intro APR rates, $0 annual fees, achievable credit score requirements, rewarding rewards, and low ongoing interest rates. Happy hunting, peeps!
How to Identify a Good Low APR on a Credit Card
Shopping for a credit card can be tricky, but focusing on cards with low APRs (Annual Percentage Rates) is smart. Here are a few tips to help you pinpoint cards with low interest rates:
First, recognize that the credit card market is competitive. Banks are always coming up with enticing offers to woo customers.
Use this knowledge to your advantage by comparing offers from multiple issuers. Some popular low-interest credit cards include the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card, the U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card, and the Chase Freedom Unlimited®.
Next, pay attention to intro rates – often advertised as interest-free for a specified period. A 0% intro rate can be a blessing if you have a big purchase or balance transfer plan.
The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card, for example, offers a 0% intro rate for 21 months on purchases and balance transfers. Don’t get carried away, though. Remember to check the standard APR after the intro period because the rate will apply in the long run.
Also, consider your credit score when hunting for low-APR cards. Offered rates often depend on your credit standing.
To qualify for the lowest rates, maintain a good to excellent credit score (above 680) and show responsible borrowing habits. If you have a lower score, improve it before applying for that fancy low-interest card.
Lastly, pay attention to accompanying perks such as cashback rewards, benefits, and fees. While focusing solely on the low rate may be tempting, a comprehensive assessment of the card’s overall value can save you money over time. For instance, Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a low-interest rate and bonus rewards.
Remember, the key to identifying a good low-APR credit card is to be savvy, well-informed, and vigilant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best options for balance transfer credit cards?
If you’re looking to transfer a balance, there are some great cards to choose from. Top options include the Citi Simplicity Card, Chase Slate, and Discover it Balance Transfer.
Each offers no annual fee and a 0% intro APR period, allowing you to save on interest while paying off your debt. Check transfer fees and compare specific terms before deciding which suits you best.
Which banks offer credit cards with low-interest rates?
Loads of banks provide low-interest credit cards to cater to various needs. For instance, American Express, Chase, and Citi feature cards with low-interest rates or 0% intro APR periods.
The key to picking the right one is to evaluate your spending habits, credit score, and personal financial goals. Besides, don’t forget to factor in annual fees, rewards programs, and other perks that may tip the balance in one card’s favor.
Are there credit cards with extended 0% interest periods?
Definitely! Some credit cards offer extended 0% intro APR periods, which can give you a great opportunity to make large purchases or transfer balances without incurring interest charges. For example, the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card extends a 0% intro APR for 20 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Another option is the Wells Fargo Platinum Card, featuring an 18-month 0% intro APR period. Remember, though, it’s essential to read the fine print and understand when the introductory period ends to avoid surprises.
Related Resources
