If you want to avoid interest charges for large purchases or seek balance transfer credit cards, having a 0 percent intro APR can benefit you over many billing cycles before the regular annual percentage rate (APR) applies. However, you'll want to pay on time to avoid a penalty APR and late fee that can negate the benefit.
When looking at credit card offers, you'll find the best 0 APR credit cards often charge no annual fee and may offer a sign-up bonus and ongoing bonus cash rewards. Consider some of the four best credit cards from Discover, U.S. Bank, American Express and Bank of America.
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1. U.S. Bank Visa Platinum
Giving you a 0 percent introductory APR for 20 months, the U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum stands out if you need the most billing cycles to pay off a large purchase until the 14.49 to 24.49 percent variable APR kicks in. The promotion at account opening works for both balance transfers and purchases. You'll experience no annual fee the first year or thereafter. However, a 3 percent balance transfer fee and a 2 to 3 percent foreign transaction fee can apply.
This card doesn't give cash back or have a reward program However, cardholders do get free cell phone protection and a free credit score tracker.
To take advantage of this promotional APR offer, you can visit the card's application page.
2. American Express Blue Cash Everyday
If you want a 0 percent introductory APR period plus cashback rewards, the American Express Blue Cash Everyday® can fit both needs. The introductory offer applies to purchases for 15 months, and you'll pay a 13.99 to 23.99 percent variable APR after the period ends. You can also take advantage of zero-fee pay later plans during the promotional period as well as receive a $250 statement credit if your new purchases total $2,000 within six months of account opening.
The card offers a rewards program with 3 percent cash back for grocery store purchases, 2 percent back at gas stations and certain department stores and 1 percent back on other everyday purchases. You also get numerous perks such as car rental insurance and access to special experiences.
To get this new card, you can explore options and apply now by visiting American Express's card page.
Consider also: How to Make a Cash Advance With an American Express Gold Card
When looking at credit card offers, you'll find the best 0 APR credit cards often charge no annual fee and may offer a sign-up bonus and ongoing bonus cash rewards.
3. Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards card offers a 15-month interest-free period for purchases and balance transfers (3 percent balance transfer fee applies). You pay a variable APR of 13.99 to 23.99 percent after the intro APR period. This is a no-annual fee card.
This card stands out since you can choose from certain bonus categories to receive 3 percent cash back, get 2 percent back at U.S. supermarkets and 1 percent on others. You can get a $200 welcome bonus for spending $1,000 during the first 90 days of account opening. You get other benefits like being able to see your FICO score.
You can view Bank of America's card page to apply now and see which terms apply.
4. Discover It Cash Back
Giving you 14 months with a 0 percent balance transfer and purchase APR, the Discover It® Cash Back card helps with new purchases and transfers from cards with a higher regular APR. After the intro APR offer, you pay an 11.99 to 22.99 percent variable interest rate based on creditworthiness. The intro balance transfer fee is 3 percent compared to 5 percent after the promotional period ends.
You can enjoy a top cashback rewards rate of 5 percent when you make eligible purchases through places such as grocery stores or Amazon or you use PayPal. Otherwise, you get 1 percent back on card charges and the potential for bonus points on rotating categories.
To get this card for a big purchase or everyday purchases, you can apply through Discover's card page.
Consider also: Secured Credit Card vs. Prepaid Debit Card
- California Office of the Attorney General: Zero Interest Financing
- U.S. Bank: U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
- U.S. Bank: Let’s Get Started
- Discover: Discover It® Cash Back Credit Card
- Discover: Apply for the Best Discover Credit Card for You
- Bank of America: Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Bank of America: Credit Cards
- American Express: Blue Cash Everyday® Card
- American Express: Credit Cards