Transfer Credit Card Balances to a 0% APR Card

The Problem

You're paying 22% APR on a $5,000 credit card balance = $1,100/year in interest alone.

The Hack

Apply for a balance transfer card (Chase Slate, Citi Simplicity). Transfer your high-interest balances. Pay $0 interest for 12-21 months. Divide balance by months to create a payoff plan.

Why It Works

A 0% APR period means every dollar goes to principal, not interest. On $5,000 at 22%, you save $1,100/year in interest — money that now reduces your actual debt.

Pro Tips

• Balance transfer fee: typically 3% ($150 on $5,000) — still saves vs 22% APR
• Make a plan to pay it off BEFORE the 0% period ends
• Don't charge anything new on the old card
• Set up autopay for the monthly payoff amount