Understanding interest rates and finding the right credit card to minimize costs is crucial. Whether you’re planning to make a large purchase or aiming to consolidate debt, the following credit cards offer some of the longest 0% intro APR periods and low interest rates in January 2024.
- BankAmericard® credit card
Our pick for the longest 0% intro APR period
It is one of the longest 0% introductory APR periods available.
Ideal for managing debt or financing significant purchases.
- Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
Our pick for the longest 0% intro APR period
Boasting an impressive 0% intro APR period approaching almost two years.
Applicable to both purchases and balance transfers.
- U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
Our pick for Longer 0% intro APR period
Lengthy 0% introductory APR period for purchases and balance transfers.
- Chase Slate Edge℠
Our pick for Long 0% intro APR period
The Chase Slate Edge℠ offers an excellent 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers as an intro period.
Potential incentives for paying on time.
- Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
Our pick for: Travel rewards
A top choice for a no-annual-fee travel card.
Solid rewards rate on every purchase with flexible redemption options.
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Our pick for: Ongoing cashback
A versatile card with 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
Bonus rewards on travel, restaurants, and drugstores.
- Citi Custom Cash® Card
Our pick for: Bonus category cashback
Offers 5% back on up to $500 spent per billing cycle.
A $0 annual fee and no activation schedule for bonus categories.
- Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Our pick for: Highest flat-rate cash back
You can get a 2% cashback on all purchases, coupled with a rich sign-up bonus.
A 0% intro APR on purchases and transfers.
- Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Our pick for: Flat-rate cash back
The original 1.5% flat-rate cash-back card with redemption flexibility.
A compelling combination of rewards, sign-up bonus, and introductory 0% APR period.
- Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card
Our pick for: Flat-rate cash back
One of the many 1.5% flat-rate cash-back cards.
A decent sign-up bonus and a generous intro APR period.
- Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Our pick for: Grocery and gas rewards
Elevated rewards at U.S. supermarkets, gas stations, and online retail purchases.
No annual fee with a decent welcome offer and an introductory 0% APR period.
- Chase Freedom Flex℠
Our pick for: Bonus category cash back
Offers bonus cash back in quarterly categories, travel, restaurants, and drugstores.
Fantastic bonus offer for new users and a 0% intro APR period.
Understanding Interest Rates and APRs
The annual percentage rate, commonly known as APR, represents the interest rate applied by your credit card issuer to any outstanding debt. Opting for credit cards with a 0% APR promotion allows you to save money and save time during a designated introductory period, as it eliminates interest charges. This provides you with an opportunity to reduce your balance or make substantial purchases without incurring additional costs.
It’s essential to note that a 0% APR doesn’t mean you’ll never pay interest. After the introductory period, interest will apply to the remaining balance, typically at the ongoing APR. It is crucial to understand these terms to make informed financial decisions.
Difference Between Interest and APR
In the realm of credit cards, there’s no difference between the interest rate and APR—they are synonymous. Federal truth-in-lending laws mandate the use of APR, encompassing not only the interest on borrowed money but also fees and other charges. While APR is expressed annually, interest is usually charged on a daily basis.
How 0% APR Offers Work
If you have a card with a 0% APR offer for, say, 15 months, it means no interest will be charged on purchases during that period. It’s crucial to pay your bill on time every month, as a late payment could cancel the 0% rate, moving you to the ongoing rate. Unlike “deferred interest” offers, there’s no retroactive interest with a 0% APR offer.
Choosing a suitable card involves considering your finances, spending habits, and how you plan to use the card. If you need personalized advice or have specific preferences, feel free to let us know.