Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Plan Before You Switch

Use our Balance Transfer Calculator to find the right card for you.

If you’re carrying credit card debt, a balance transfer credit card can help you pay it down faster by moving your balance to a new card with 0% interest for a set period. Using a balance transfer calculator helps you understand how much interest you could potentially save by transferring debt from your existing cards to a balance transfer card.

Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards – September 2025

Mintify Limited, trading as Mintify, is an Appointed Representative of Creditec Limited and is acting as a credit broker, not a lender.

The Mintalists have compiled a transparent list of top scoring UK balance transfer credit cards so you can compare key features side by side – including 0% interest periods, transfer fees, and ongoing APRs. Each card is also rated using our independent proprietary credit card rating system, designed to help you understand how different options stack up against one another.

Barclaycard

Platinum Longer Balance Transfer

4.6

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

24.90% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for up to 34 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (3.45% fee).

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, at a purchase rate of 24.90% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.6

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The Platinum Longer Balance Transfer credit card offers 0% interest on balance transfers for up to 34 months, making it a suitable option for those with larger balances to repay over time. It comes with a 3.45% balance transfer fee which may be offset by the extended interest-free period.

Issuer Barclaycard
Network Visa
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme
Incentive on opening Benefit from up to 34 months interest free on your balance transfer.
Cashback rate (if applicable) No cashback scheme
Account Fees £0
Purchases 24.90% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 56 days
Balance Transfers 0% for up to 34 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (3.45% fee).
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 3.19%
Cash Advances 24.90% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 50.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject to application, financial circumstances and borrowing history

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

first direct

Balance Transfer Credit Card

4.1

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

24.90% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for 20 months (transfer made within 90 days), then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (2.99% fee)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 24.90% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.1

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The first direct Balance Transfer Credit Card is available exclusively to existing first direct customers. It offers up to 20 months of 0% interest on balance transfers made within the first 90 days of account opening, making it a strong option for consolidating existing credit card debt if repaid within the promotional window. The average credit limit offered is £7,700 which is based on all accepted credit card applications over 2024.

Issuer first direct
Network Visa
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme
Incentive on opening 0% interest on balance transfers for the first 20 months made within 90 days, with a 2.99% balance transfer fee (minimum £5)
Cashback rate (if applicable) No cashback scheme
Account Fees £0
Purchases 24.90% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 56 days
Balance Transfers 0% for 20 months (transfer made within 90 days), then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (2.99% fee)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 2.99%
Cash Advances 29.90% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 500.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

Halifax

Longest 0% Balance Transfer

4.6

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

0% for up to 6 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for 29 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a. (3.49% for 3 months)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 24.94% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.6

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The Halifax Longest 0% Balance Transfer credit card offers up to 29 months of 0% interest on balance transfers, making it one of the longer balance transfer options currently available. It may suit individuals looking to spread repayments on existing debt over a longer period without incurring interest.

Issuer Halifax
Network Mastercard
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme
Incentive on opening 0% interest on Balance Transfers for 29 months
Cashback rate (if applicable) No cashback scheme
Account Fees £0
Purchases 0% for up to 6 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 56 days
Balance Transfers 0% for 29 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a. (3.49% for 3 months)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 5.00%
Cash Advances 24.94% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 0.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

HSBC

Balance Transfer Credit Card

4.5

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

0% for up to 3 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for 34 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (3.19% transfer fee)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 24.90% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.5

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The HSBC Balance Transfer Credit Card offers up to 34 months of 0% interest on balance transfers, making it one of the longest balance transfer offers currently available. It may be a suitable choice for those looking to spread the cost of existing credit card debt over an extended period without paying interest provided the balance is cleared within the promotional window.

Issuer HSBC
Network Visa
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme
Incentive on opening 0% interest on Balance Transfers for 34 months
Cashback rate (if applicable) No cashback scheme
Account Fees £0
Purchases 0% for up to 3 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 56 days
Balance Transfers 0% for 34 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (3.19% transfer fee)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 3.19%
Cash Advances 29.90% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 500.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

Lloyds Bank

Platinum Balance Transfer

4.6

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

0% for up to 6 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for 31 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a. (3.2% fee for 3 months)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 24.94% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.6

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The Lloyds Bank Platinum Balance Transfer credit card offers up to 31 months of 0% interest on balance transfers, making it one of the longest balance transfer deals currently available. It may be a good option for those looking to repay existing credit card debt gradually without incurring interest provided the balance is cleared within the promotional period.

Issuer Lloyds Bank
Network Mastercard
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme
Incentive on opening 0% interest on Balance Transfers for up to 31 months
Cashback rate (if applicable) No cashback scheme
Account Fees £0
Purchases 0% for up to 6 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 56 days
Balance Transfers 0% for 31 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a. (3.2% fee for 3 months)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 5.00%
Cash Advances 24.94% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 0.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

M&S Bank

Transfer Plus

4.4

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

0% for up to 3 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for 30 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (3.49% fee)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.4

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The M&S Bank Transfer Plus credit card offers up to 30 months of 0% interest on balance transfers, placing it among the longer-term balance transfer options available. In addition to the promotional offer, cardholders can earn M&S points on everyday spending, adding a rewards element to the card.

Issuer M&S Bank
Network Mastercard
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme Points
Incentive on opening By subscribing to M&S Club Rewards for £10 per month, you will receive £120 in M&S vouchers as well as other gifts and treats. In total, that could be worth £240 (check T&Cs), throughout the year.
Cashback rate (if applicable) 1 rewards point per £1 spent in M&S and 1 rewards point for every £5 spent elsewhere. 100 rewards points = £1 in M&S vouchers.
Account Fees £0
Purchases 0% for up to 3 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 55 days
Balance Transfers 0% for 30 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (3.49% fee)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 3.49%
Cash Advances 29.90% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 500.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

MBNA Limited

Long 0% Balance Transfer

4.5

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

24.94% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for 34 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a. (3.49% fee)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 24.94% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.5

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The MBNA Long 0% Balance Transfer credit card offers an extended interest-free period on balance transfers, alongside a 0% interest offer on money transfers. It also includes cashback incentives, making it a versatile option for consolidating debt while earning rewards on eligible spending.

Issuer MBNA Limited
Network Mastercard
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme
Incentive on opening Earn up to 15% cashback on purchases through Smart Rewards at popular retailers.
Cashback rate (if applicable) Up to 15% cashback on purchases through Smart Rewards at popular retailers.
Account Fees £0
Purchases 24.94% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 56 days
Balance Transfers 0% for 34 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a. (3.49% fee)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 5.00%
Cash Advances 24.94% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 0.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

Santander

Everyday Long Term Balance Transfer

4.6

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

0% for up to 3 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% 31 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (3.45% fee)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 24.90% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.6

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The Santander Everyday Long Term Balance Transfer credit card offers one of the longest 0% interest periods available on balance transfers, with up to 31 months interest-free. While it charges a 3.45% balance transfer fee, the extended promotional period may offset this cost by giving consumers more time to repay their balances without incurring interest.

Issuer Santander
Network Mastercard
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme
Incentive on opening Get 3 months interest-free on purchases from account opening and 31 months on balance transfers
Cashback rate (if applicable) No cashback scheme
Account Fees £0
Purchases 0% for up to 3 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 56 days
Balance Transfers 0% 31 months, then 24.90% (variable) p.a. (3.45% fee)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 3.45%
Cash Advances 29.90% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 500.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

Tesco Bank

Balance Transfer

4.5

OUR RATING

Representative APR

24.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

24.9% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for 34 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a. (3.45% fee)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 24.9% APR (variable).

4.5

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The Tesco Bank Balance Transfer credit card offers up to 34 months of 0% interest on balance transfers, making it a strong option for those needing extended time to repay existing balances. It includes introductory balance transfer fees to consider. Additionally, cardholders can benefit from Tesco Clubcard points on eligible spending, adding value beyond the balance transfer offer. Tesco banking has transferred to Barclays. Barclays will continue to use the Tesco Bank brand on all existing Tesco Bank banking products through a long-term strategic partnership with Tesco. If your application is successful, there’ll be no immediate changes to how you use and manage your account on a day-to-day basis.

Issuer Tesco Bank
Network Mastercard
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme Clubcard
Incentive on opening 5 points per £4 spent (£4 minimum) in Tesco, 1 point for every £4 spent on Tesco fuel (excluding Esso) plus 1 point per £8 spent (£8 minimum) outside Tesco.
Cashback rate (if applicable) 5 points per £4 spent (£4 minimum) in Tesco, 1 point for every £4 spent on Tesco fuel (excluding Esso) plus 1 point per £8 spent (£8 minimum) outside Tesco. Must have available credit to earn points. Points are converted to Tesco vouchers or can be exchanged for Partner rewards to receive money off a variety of restaurants, entertainment or Avios points.
Account Fees £0
Purchases 24.9% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 56 days
Balance Transfers 0% for 34 months, then 24.94% (variable) p.a. (3.45% fee)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 3.45%
Cash Advances 29.94% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 100.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

Virgin Money

Balance Transfer

3.1

OUR RATING

Representative APR

29.9% APR (variable)

Purchases

0% for up to 3 months, then 29.90% (variable) p.a.

Balance Transfers

0% for 14 months, then 29.90% (variable) p.a. (2.5% fee for 2 months)

Account Fees

£0

Representative Example: At an assumed credit limit of £1,200, with a purchase rate of 29.90% (variable) p.a., most accepted customers get a rate of 29.9% APR (variable).

3.1

OUR RATING

Quick Look

The Virgin Money Balance Transfer credit card offers 14 months of 0% interest on balance transfers. It also provides an introductory 0% interest period on purchases and money transfers, making it a versatile option for managing existing debt and new spending without interest during the promotional period.

Issuer Virgin Money
Network Mastercard
Primary Category Balance Transfer
Loyalty Scheme
Incentive on opening Up to 14 months interest free on Balance Transfers
Cashback rate (if applicable) No cashback scheme
Account Fees £0
Purchases 0% for up to 3 months, then 29.90% (variable) p.a.
Purchases Interest Free Period 50 days
Balance Transfers 0% for 14 months, then 29.90% (variable) p.a. (2.5% fee for 2 months)
Balance Transfer Fee (%) 5.00%
Cash Advances 29.90% (variable) p.a. (fees apply)
Minimum Credit Limit £ 0.00
Maximum Credit Limit Subject To Status

The information contained in this table summarises key product features and is not intended to replace any terms and conditions from the card issuer

Showing all 10 Balance Transfer credit cards

Find the right Credit Card for you

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34.4% Representative APR (variable)

Mintify Limited, trading as Mintify, is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Creditec Limited who acts as a credit broker, not a lender.

What is a balance transfer credit card?

A balance transfer credit card allows you to move existing credit card debt to a new card that offers a lower interest rate, often 0% for an introductory period. This helps reduce the amount of interest you pay, so more of your payments go toward the balance. Some cards also offer a 0% purchase introductory period too. Take a free eligibility check to see which cards and offers you could be eligible for without any impact on your credit score.

Should I use a balance transfer calculator?

If you’re thinking about moving a balance, comparing your current situation with a potential new one can help you make the decision as to whether a balance transfer credit card is the right option for you. A balance transfer calculator shows you in seconds whether the switch actually saves you money. You’ll see how much of your debt you can clear during the 0% period, what could still be left, and how fees affect the total.

Rather than guessing or reading general advice, try Mintify’s free Balance Transfer Calculator now. Enter your existing balance, 0% promo length, transfer fee and monthly payment to get a personalised repayment plan you can download.

Who are balance transfer cards for?

You may benefit from a balance transfer card if you:

  • Have existing credit card debt and want to reduce interest
  • Are paying high interest on your current card
  • Can repay debt within a set promotional period
  • Have a good enough credit score to qualify for top offers
Tip Icon

Mintip: See our Top 10 Balance Transfer Credit Cards to compare the best 0% deals side by side.

Am I eligible for a balance transfer card?

You may qualify if you:

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Mintip: Use an eligibility checker to see which cards you’re likely to be approved for with no impact on your credit score.

Straight from the Mintalists

What should you watch out for when using a balance transfer credit card? A balance transfer can potentially save you interest, but only if you avoid the common traps:

  • Transfer fees add up. A “no fee” card might work out cheaper than a longer 0% offer with a 3% charge.
  • Time restrictions. If you don’t clear the balance within the promotional period, your remaining balance will be hit with the card’s standard APR.
  • Transfer window. Most cards require you to move your balance within 60–90 days of opening the account. Miss it, and you could lose the promotional 0% offer.
  • Minimum payments don’t clear much. Sticking to the minimum keeps the account open, but you’ll still carry debt past the promo.
  • Same bank restrictions. You usually can’t transfer between cards from the same provider or banking group.
  • New spending isn’t free. Purchases or cash withdrawals often attract interest straight away.
  • APR after the promo. When the 0% period ends, any remaining balance starts accruing interest at the card’s standard APR immediately. Check the rate and set a reminder for the end date.

Frequently asked questions

Can I transfer more than one balance?

Yes, many cards allow consolidating multiple balances but always check the terms offered to you.

Will a balance transfer affect my credit score?

When you apply for a balance transfer credit card, the lender will usually run a hard credit check. This may cause a small, temporary drop in your credit score. Over time, how your score changes will depend on how you manage the account – for example, making payments on time, staying within your limit, and reducing overall debt may have a positive effect, while missed payments or taking on more borrowing could harm it. Everyone’s situation is different, so outcomes will vary.

What happens after the 0% period ends?

When the promotional 0% balance transfer period ends, any remaining balance will usually start to accrue interest at the card’s standard APR. This rate can vary between cards and applicants, so make sure you check the terms you’ve been offered and don’t just focus on the introductory rate.

Are there balance transfer cards for bad credit?

Some credit building cards may include a balance transfer option. These offers are often shorter than mainstream 0% deals and may come with higher interest rates once the introductory period ends. Availability will depend on the card provider and your individual circumstances.

Can I transfer a balance from the same provider?

Most card providers do not allow you to transfer a balance between two of their own credit cards, or between cards within the same banking group. Always check your provider’s terms and conditions to confirm what’s possible before applying.

Find the right Credit Card for you

Tick bullet point icon
Does not impact your credit score
Tick bullet point icon
Find out which credit cards you’re eligible for
Tick bullet point icon
34.4% Representative APR (variable)

Mintify Limited, trading as Mintify, is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Creditec Limited who acts as a credit broker, not a lender.