Finances

How to do a balance transfer in 10 simple steps

Are you wondering how balance transfers works? Wonder no longer! Keep reading and learn everything you need! Let's go!

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Stop paying interest: become an expert on balance transfers

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How to do a balance transfer in 10 simple steps. Source: Adobe Stock

Balance transfers can seem daunting if you’ve never done it before. That’s why we’ve put together a simple guide on how to do a balance transfer in 10 easy steps.

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An easy step-by-step guide to balance transfers

If you have high-interest debt on your credit card, transferring your balance to a card with a lower interest rate can save you a lot of money.

But the process of a balance transfer can be confusing and intimidating.

In sequence, it will provide a step-by-step guide about how to do a balance transfer. So, you can take advantage of the benefits of a lower interest rate.

1. Check your credit score

Before applying for a balance transfer credit card, checking your credit score is important. The better your credit score, the more likely you will be approved for a credit card with a lower interest rate. 

Moreover, you can check your credit score for free on many websites, including Credit Karma and Experian.

2. Research balance transfer credit cards

Not all credit cards offer balance transfer options, and not all balance transfer credit cards are created equal.

You’ll want to look for a card that offers a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for at least 12 months, with low or no balance transfer fees.

However, many credit card issuers offer balance transfer calculators to help you compare offers and calculate how much you can save.

3. Apply for a balance transfer credit card

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Apply for a balance transfer credit card. Source: Adobe Stock

Once you’ve found a balance transfer credit card that meets your needs, it’s time to apply.

You must provide personal information, including your name, address, and social security number.

Furthermore, you’ll also need to provide information about your existing credit card debt and the card you want to transfer your balance.

Additionally, It’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully before you apply so you know what to expect.

4. Understand the terms and conditions of the new card

Before transferring your balance, understand the new card’s terms and conditions.

This includes the interest rate, any balance transfer fees, and the duration of any promotional rates.

Therefore, some balance transfer cards offer a low introductory interest rate for a certain period, while others charge a fee for each balance transfer.

Make sure you know exactly what you’re signing up for before making any decisions.

5. Set up automatic payments

This type is very important for how to do a balance transfer.

It’s important to make timely payments on your new balance transfer card to avoid interest charges.

Moreover, to ensure you don’t forget to make a payment, such as debt consolidation, consider setting up automatic payments through your bank or credit card provider.

So this way, your payment will be made on time every month, and you can focus on paying down your balance.

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6. Avoid using your old card

Once you’ve transferred your balance to a new one, avoiding using your old one is important. After all, this is essential for how to do a balance transfer.

Nevertheless, using your old card will only add to your debt and could make paying off your balance transfer harder.

Instead, focus on paying down your new card’s balance and avoiding unnecessary purchases.

7. Don’t close your old card right away

While it’s important to avoid using it, you may want to hold off on closing the account immediately.

Closing an account can affect your credit score, especially if you have a long credit history with that card.

Instead, consider keeping the account open for a few months to ensure your new card works for you before drastically changing your credit history.

8. Transfer your balance

You can initiate the transfer process after you’ve been approved for a balance transfer credit card.

You must provide the account number and balance transfer amount for the card you want to transfer from.

Finally, it’s important to continue making payments on your old credit card until the transfer is complete.

Once the transfer is complete, you’ll start making payments on your new balance transfer credit card.

9. Keep track of your balance transfer

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Keep track of your balance transfer. Source: Adobe Stock

After you complete the balance transfer process, keeping track of your account is essential to ensure everything is working smoothly.

Besides, it’s easy to forget about the transfer and use the old card again, which can lead to a higher balance and fees.

To avoid this, set up reminders on your phone or calendar to check your balance and payments regularly.

Make sure to read through your monthly statements to verify that the balance transfer was processed correctly and that there are no mistakes or discrepancies.

If you notice any errors, contact your credit card company immediately to rectify the issue.

10. Pay off your balance before the 0% APR period ends

The 0% APR introductory period is a limited-time offer, and it’s crucial to pay off your balance before it ends.

Moreover, the interest rates will increase after the promotional period, and you will start accruing interest on any remaining balance.

Plan to pay off your balance in full or as much as possible before the promotional period ends.

So, you can set up automatic payments or create a budget to ensure you have enough funds to cover your payments.

Remember, the goal of a balance transfer is to save money on interest charges, so paying off your balance before the 0% APR period ends is essential.

Bottom line

In conclusion, now you know how to do a balance transfer.

After all, a balance transfer can be a great way to save money on high-interest credit card debt, but it’s important to do your research and follow the steps carefully.

So, check your credit score, research balance transfer credit cards, apply for the right card and transfer your balance properly.

Remember to continue making payments on your old credit card until the transfer is complete, and avoid using your new card until you’ve paid off your transferred balance.

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About the author  /  Beatriz Vieira

Beatriz Vieira is a producer and copywriter who is part of the finance writer team in this portal. She has a degree in Journalism and aims to improve her bilingual writing skills. Her subjects of most significant interest are culture, finances, and self-development.

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