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Best 0% APR Credit Cards Of 2021

Forbes Advisor Staff

Updated: Jan 5, 2021, 5:50pm

Editorial Note: Forbes may earn a commission on sales made from partner links on this page, but that doesn't affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

Credit cards are known for charging higher interest rates than many other financial products, but some cards offer a 0% APR period, which can help you avoid interest for anywhere from 9 to 21 months. This can help you reduce interest costs on long-term debt and potentially even score an “interest-free loan” on a large purchase you hope to make.

Some 0% APR cards let you avoid interest payments on purchases and balance transfers, but others only extend their offers to one or the other. 0% APR cards also can lack features compared to other cards.  If a balance transfer or intro APR is not your priority, you’ll be better served by considering other options.

Forbes Advisor created this guide to help you find the right card to reach your financial goals, whether they include debt consolidation or financing a large purchase without interest charges.

Read more
Show Summary

Best 0% Credit Cards

Best for Financing Large Purchases

U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card *

U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
4.8
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Welcome Bonus

None

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

13.99% - 23.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card offers a very lengthy 20-month 0% intro APR rate and no annual fee. There are two caveats, which are the 3% balance transfer fee and the lack of a rewards program. Still, the savings from 20 months at 0% interest eclipses the 3% fee. This card is an excellent choice for financing major purchases.

  • No penalty APR.
  • Very long 0% intro APR period.
  • Cell phone protection coverage is a handy benefit.
  • 3% balance transfer fee ($5 minimum).
  • No rewards program.
  • No welcome bonus.
  • 2%-3% foreign transaction fee.
  • For a limited time, get a special 0% introductory APR on purchases for 20 billing cycles.
  • Enjoy no annual fee.
  • Cell Phone Protection: Coverage when you pay your monthly cellular bill with your U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card.
  • Choose Your Payment Due Date: Everyone’s schedule is different. So it’s handy to be able to pick when your payment is due.
  • Enroll in Online Banking and get your TransUnion Credit Score at no cost and receive email alerts when there are big changes to your credit report.
  • AutoPay: Avoid interest and late fees with automatic payments that put you in control. It can also help you pay down a balance faster.
  • Fraud Protection: Detects and notifies you of any unusual card activity to help prevent fraud.
None
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best For Supermarket Spending

Amex EveryDay® Credit Card *

Amex EveryDay® Credit Card
3.3
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Up to 2x Reward Rate

Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year (then 1X); Earn 2X points atRead More

Welcome Bonus

10,000 points

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

12.99% - 23.99% Variable APR on purchases

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

If you are looking for a solid intro APR offer and frequently spend at US supermarkets, this is the card for you.

  • No annual fee
  • Flexible rewards program with a wide variety of redemption categories
  • Easy-to-earn welcome bonus
  • Foreign transaction fee of 2.7%
  • Regular APR can be high, depending on your credit
  • High penalty APR
  • Mediocre base rewards rate
  • Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $1,000 in qualifying purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1X)
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points when you use your Card to book your trip through AmexTravel.com
  • Earn 1 Membership Rewards® point for every eligible dollar you spend on everything else
  • You can use Membership Rewards® points towards eligible charges you make on your Card, such as retail, dining, entertainment and more
  • Payment Flexibility: Your Card gives you the option to carry a balance with interest or pay in full each month
  • Use your Card 20 or more times on purchases in a billing period and earn 20% extra points on those purchases
Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $1,000 in qualifying purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Perks

Wells Fargo Visa Signature® Card *

Learn More
On Wells Fargo's Secure Website
4.0
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Learn More
On Wells Fargo's Secure Website

1X Reward Rate

Earn 1 point for each $1 spent on other purchases with your card

Welcome Bonus

5 points per dollar

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

12.49% - 25.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

The Wells Fargo Visa Signature® Card begins as an excellent value but falls short in the long run. While the 5x points earned during the first six months can be worth up to $1,000 in travel, the ongoing 1x points rate is lackluster. The 15-month intro APR extends the honeymoon period, after which the APR can range from low to very high, depending on your credit.

  • No annual fee
  • Increased rewards for the first 6 months, up to a $12,500 cap
  • Points worth 50% more if redeemed for airfare
  • Transfer or pool points across Wells Fargo accounts
  • 1x reward rate after six months
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • High balance transfer fee
  • Potentially high APR, depending on your credit
  • Earn 5 rewards points per dollar on up to $12,500 spent on gas, grocery, and drugstore purchases for the first 6 months (1 point per dollar thereafter)
  • 5 points on up to $12,500 spent on gas, grocery, and drugstore purchases for 6 months (1X thereafter)
  • 1 point for each $1 spent on other purchases with your card
  • Enjoy 5 full years to use the points you earn
  • 50% more value when redeemed for airfare: no blackout dates, no advance booking, and no minimum stay requirements
  • Travel Features: Enjoy hotel benefits through the Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection, Take advantage of our complimentary 24/7 concierge service
  • Travel Protections: Trip cancellation protection and lost luggage reimbursement, Travel accident insurance, Emergency card replacement and cash disbursement, Auto rental collision coverage, 24/7 travel and emergency assistance, Roadside dispatch
Earn 5 rewards points per dollar on up to $12,500 spent on gas, grocery, and drugstore purchases for the first 6 months (1 point per dollar thereafter)
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Welcome Bonus

Discover it® chrome

Apply Now
On Discover's Secure Website
2.2
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Apply Now
On Discover's Secure Website

Up to 2% Reward Rate

Earn cash back on your next road trip with 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up toRead More

Welcome Bonus

Cashback Match™

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

11.99% - 22.99% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

The Discover it® chrome is a mediocre card with one redeeming feature: the 1-for-1 cash back match, which doubles your rewards at the end of the first year. The high balance transfer fees make the intro APR offer less appealing, and the 2% bonus cash back is limited to the first $1,000 in quarterly spending. All other purchases earn 1%.

  • Cash back match means double the rewards at the end of your first year
  • Flexible cash back redemption options
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • High balance transfer fee
  • High cash advance fee
  • 2% cash back category limited to $1,000 in quarterly spending
  • 1% base rate on other purchases
  • Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
  • Earn cash back on your next road trip with 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
  • Redeem your cash back for any amount, any time. Cash rewards never expire.
  • 100% U.S. Based Customer Service available any time.
  • Get your free Credit Scorecard with your FICO® Credit Score, number of recent inquiries and more.
  • Get an alert if we find your Social Security number on any of thousands of Dark Web sites.* Activate for free.
  • No annual fee.
  • Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Rotating Categories

Discover it® Cash Back

Apply Now
On Discover's Secure Website
3.6
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Apply Now
On Discover's Secure Website

Up to 5% Reward Rate

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations andRead More

Welcome Bonus

Cashback Match™

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

11.99% - 22.99% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

For moderate spenders who are willing to activate the 5% rotating categories and track the quarterly spending cap, this no-annual-fee card can deliver tidy rewards outside of its ongoing 1% earning rate.

  • 5% cash back on quarterly rotating spending categories throughout the year
  • Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
  • No minimum cashback redemption
  • 5% bonus cashback rate is limited to $1,500 per quarter in spending
  • Bonus categories must be activated quarterly
  • Low 1% base reward rate on everything else
  • Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and when you pay using PayPal, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
  • Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
  • Redeem cash back in any amount, any time. Rewards never expire.
  • Use your rewards at Amazon.com checkout.
  • #1 Most Trusted Credit Card according to Investor’s Business Daily.
  • No annual fee.
  • Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Low Ongoing Interest

HSBC Gold Mastercard® credit card *

4.5
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Welcome Bonus

None

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

13.99% - 23.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

The HSBC Gold Mastercard® credit card comes with a very long 0% intro APR period, no annual fee, and no penalty APR. No rewards program and no welcome bonus make this a pure balance transfer or major purchase card. It could have been a fantastic one, but the 4% balance transfer fee reduces its appeal.

  • Late fee waiver once per year
  • No penalty APR
  • Long intro APR period
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Balance Transfers between HSBC accounts is not allowed
  • High 4% balance transfer fee
  • No rewards program
  • No welcome bonus
  • 0% Introductory APR on Purchases and Balance Transfers for the first 18 months from account opening
  • Late Fee waiver: If your payment is late, we’ll waive the late fee once every 12 months
  • Tap & go® with any HSBC credit card: Tap & go® contactless payments are faster than swiping or inserting your card for payment
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees: There are no added costs when using your card to make purchases in a foreign country
  • Mobile Pay: All HSBC Credit Cards are available with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay
  • MasterRental Coverage: Provides protection for physical damage and theft to most rental vehicles
  • Emergency Card Services: Mastercard Global Service® provides worldwide, 24-hour assistance with Lost and Stolen Card Reporting
None
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Mobile Wallet Purchases

Wells Fargo Cash Wise Visa® Card *

Learn More
On Wells Fargo Bank's Secure Website
2.4
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Learn More
On Wells Fargo Bank's Secure Website

1.5% Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 1.5% cash rewards on purchases

Welcome Bonus

$150 cash rewards bonus

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

14.49% - 24.99% fixed APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

One of several 1.5% cash rewards credit cards on the market today, the Wells Fargo Cash Wise Visa Card is a good everyday card, although several 2% cash back credit card alternatives are available.

  • 1.5% cash back on all purchases
  • Low spending requirement for welcome bonus
  • No annual fee
  • 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • Requires good/excellent credit
  • Cash back rewards redeemed in $25 increments
  • Earn a $150 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash rewards on purchases
  • Enjoy 1.8% cash rewards on qualified digital wallet purchases, like Apple Pay® or Google Pay™, during the first 12 months from account opening
  • Get up to $600 protection on your cell phone (subject to $25 deductible) against covered damage or theft when you pay your monthly cellular telephone bill with your Wells Fargo Cash Wise Visa® Card
  • $0 Annual Fee
  • 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
  • Cash rewards do not expire as long as the account is open
  • Account protections such as 24/7 Fraud Monitoring, Alerts & Zero Liability protection for promptly reported unauthorized transactions
$150 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Cell Phone Insurance

Wells Fargo Platinum Card *

Wells Fargo Platinum Card
4.4
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Welcome Bonus

None

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

16.49% - 24.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

An 18-month 0% introductory APR period on both purchases and balance transfers makes the Wells Fargo Platinum Visa Card an excellent choice to pay down debt or finance a major purchase. There’s no annual fee, but the balance transfer and foreign transaction fees dampen our enthusiasm a bit.

  • 0% introductory APR on balance transfers and purchases for 18 months
  • $0 Annual Fee
  • FICO score tracking
  • No rewards program or welcome bonus
  • High balance transfer fee
  • High regular APR
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • 0% Intro APR for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers (fees apply), then a 16.49%-24.49% variable APR; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee
  • Get up to $600 protection on your cell phone (subject to $25 deductible) against covered damage or theft when you pay your monthly cellular telephone bill with your Wells Fargo Platinum Visa card
  • Easy access to your FICO® Credit Score with Wells Fargo Online®
  • Zero Liability protection for promptly reported unauthorized transactions
  • Convenient tools to help create a budget and manage your spending with My Money Map
  • $0 Annual Fee
  • Select “”Apply Now”” to learn more about the product features, terms, and conditions
None
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Balance Transfer Window

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

Apply Now
On Citibank's Secure Website
4.3
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Apply Now
On Citibank's Secure Website

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

14.74% - 24.74% (Variable)

Credit Score

Excellent (750 - 850)

Those looking to consolidate debt and pay it off over time will appreciate the very long 0% APR intro offer on balance transfers. A $0 annual fee further enhances its frugal appeal. On the downside, this card is light on perks and comes with a heavy balance transfer fee.

  • Very long intro APR offer for balance transfers
  • Special event access through Citi Entertainment®
  • No annual fee
  • Free access to your FICO® Score
  • Very high balance transfer fees
  • Very high penalty APR and penalty fees
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • No welcome bonus or rewards program
  • 0% Intro APR for 18 months on purchases from date of account opening and 0% Intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers from date of first transfer. After that the variable APR will be 14.74% – 24.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
  • There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Get free access to your FICO® Score online.
  • With Citi Entertainment®, get special access to purchase tickets to thousands of events, including concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and more.
  • Shop with confidence knowing that you have dependable protection benefits, including $0 Liability on Unauthorized Purchases and Citi® Identity Theft Solutions.
  • The standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 14.74% – 24.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Citi Flex Plan offers are made available at Citi’s discretion.
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Late Payment Forgiveness

Citi Simplicity® Card *

Citi Simplicity® Card
4.3
Our ratings take into account the card’s rewards, fees, rates along with the card’s category. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Welcome Bonus

None

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

14.74% - 24.74% (Variable) APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

The Citi Simplicity Card offers a very long 18-month 0% intro APR offer for balance transfers, with the catch that each transfer incurs a 3% fee. You'll also get an 18-month 0% intro APR offer on purchases. However, there is no rewards program nor any welcome bonus, making this truly a "simple" card for those looking to hold a balance interest-free for a long period of time.

  • No late fees
  • No penalty APR
  • No annual fee
  • Very long 0% intro APR offer
  • High regular APR
  • No rewards program
  • 3% balance transfer fee (min $5)
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • No Late Fees, No Penalty Rate, and No Annual Fee… Ever
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months from date of first transfer. All transfers must be completed in first 4 months. After that, the variable APR will be 14.74% – 24.74%, based on your creditworthiness
  • 0% Intro APR on purchases for 18 months from date of account opening. After that, the variable APR will be 14.74% – 24.74%%, based on your creditworthiness
  • If you transfer a balance with this offer, after your 0% Intro purchase APR expires, both new purchases and unpaid purchase balances will automatically accrue interest until all balances, including your transferred balances, are paid in full
  • There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • The same great rate for all balances, after the introductory period
  • Save time when you call with fast, personal help, 24 hours a day — just say “representative”
  • Enjoy the convenience of setting up your own bill payment schedule on any available due date throughout the month
None
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Here's a summary of the Best 0% APR Credit Cards

Credit Card
Best For
Credit Score
Annual Fee
Welcome Bonus
Best Overall
Excellent, Good
$0
$200 bonus
Best for Financing Large Purchases
Good/Excellent
$0
None
Best For Supermarket Spending
Good/Excellent
$0
10,000 points
Best for Perks
Good/Excellent
$0
5 points per dollar
Best for Welcome Bonus
Excellent/Good
$0
Cashback Match™
Best for Rotating Categories
Excellent/Good
$0
Cashback Match™
Best for Low Ongoing Interest
Good/Excellent
$0
None
Best for Mobile Wallet Purchases
Good/Excellent
$0
$150 cash rewards bonus
Best for Cell Phone Insurance
Good/Excellent
$0
None
Best for Balance Transfer Window
Excellent
$0
N/A
Best for Late Payment Forgiveness
Good/Excellent
$0
None
Best for Flexible Rewards
Excellent/Good
$0
$200 bonus plus 5% cash back at grocery stores on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.

Methodology

Not all 0% APR cards are created equally. To generate our list of top picks for 0% APR credit cards, Forbes Advisor reviewed dozens of 0% APR credit cards across a broad spectrum of issuers.

We weighed a number of factors including the length of a card’s 0% APR offer, any welcome bonuses and any credit card fees as part of ownership and/or ability to transfer a balance from another card. We also considered the usefulness of the card beyond the intro APR period including if it earned rewards on purchases.


The Best 0% APR Credit Cards

Chase Freedom Flex℠

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ has the brawn to handle just about all of your credit card spending needs without an over-inflated price tag. The card has an annual fee of $0, yet comes with a pumped-up earnings structure that covers a wide swath of expenses plus a meaty rewards structure to boot.

Intro APR Offer: Get a 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases (followed by the standard variable APR of 14.99% – 23.74%).

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. And earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.

Balance Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 on combined purchases in rotating bonus categories each quarter that you activate, 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% on drugstores, dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services and 1% on all other purchases.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: The card’s benefits give it staying power in your wallet long after the introductory offer. But other cards offer longer 0% APR periods, which may be more valuable to you in the short term.

Read our full review of the Chase Freedom Flex Card.

U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card *
[ jump to details ]

If you’re looking for one of the longest runways possible to pay off a big purchase or shed existing debt, the U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card is the best choice you’ll find. The extra-lengthy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers is the main event and the biggest reason you should consider this card.

Intro APR Offer: Get a 0% Intro APR on purchases for 20 billing cycles as well as on balance transfers (followed by the standard variable APR of 13.99% – 23.99%)

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: None

Balance Transfer Fee: Either 3% of the amount of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater

Rewards: None

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Although there are no rewards for spending on this card, if you pay your monthly cell phone bill with the card you’ll get insurance for your primary phone and any additional lines for damage or theft up to $600 with a $25 deductible for up to two claims ($1,200) per 12-month period.

Read our full review of the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card.

Amex EveryDay® Credit Card *
[ jump to details ]

The Amex EveryDay Credit card offers a respectable 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on up to $6,000 annually at U.S. supermarkets, then 1 point per dollar. All other spending earns 1 point per dollar spent. However, the secret sauce with this card comes with frequent usage. Use this card 20 or more times in a billing cycle and get a 20% points boost on purchases made in that cycle.

Intro APR Offer: Get a 0% Intro APR on purchases for 15 months (followed by the standard variable APR of 12.99% – 23.99%).

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $1,000 in qualifying purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership

Balance Transfer Fee: See Terms

Rewards: Earn  2 Membership Reward points per dollar spent on up to $6,000 annually at U.S. supermarkets, then 1 point per dollar. All other purchases earn 1 point per dollar spent.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks:  Comes with secondary car rental coverage and global assistance services, a nice set of features for a no annual fee card. But other cards may offer higher rewards both on grocery purchases and all other spending so this card may be best for someone to use as part of an overall rewards maximizing strategy.

Read our full review of the Amex EveryDay® Credit Card.

Wells Fargo Visa Signature® Card *
[ jump to details ]

Not only does the Wells Fargo Visa® Signature Card offer more than a year of 0% APR time on purchases and balance transfers, but using the card on eligible purchases will earn rewards too. Plus, like nearly all Wells Fargo credit cards, you’ll get valuable travel and purchase protections and insurances.

Intro APR Offer: Get a 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers (followed by the standard variable APR of 12.49% – 25.49%)

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: Earn 5 rewards points per dollar on up to $12,500 spent on gas, grocery, and drugstore purchases for the first 6 months (1 point per dollar thereafter)

Balance Transfer Fee: Introductory fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater, for 120 days from account opening. After that, up to 5% for each balance transfer, with a minimum of $5.

Rewards: Earn 1 point per dollar spent on purchases with your card.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Although it doesn’t offer a traditional welcome bonus, the earning potential within the first six months of owning the card could be just as valuable. Points can be pooled with other Wells Fargo cards and redeemed for 50% more value for airfare when booked through the Go Far Rewards website.

As a Visa Signature card, the Wells Fargo Platinum Visa also offers trip cancellation protection and lost luggage reimbursement, travel accident insurance and auto rental collision coverage.

Read our full review of the Wells Fargo Visa Signature card.

Discover it® chrome
[ jump to details ]

The Discover it® chrome was designed for consumers whose biggest areas of spending are gas stations and restaurants and can make good use of the 0% intro offer on purchases and balance transfers.

Discover cards all offer their own twist on a welcome bonus as well: You’ll automatically get an unlimited dollar-for-dollar match of all the cash back you earned at the end of your first year as a cardholder. Depending on how much you spend, this can be much more valuable than a traditional welcome bonus.

Intro APR Offer: 0% Intro APR for 14 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers (followed by the standard variable APR of 11.99% – 22.99%).

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.

Balance Transfer Fee: 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*

Rewards: Earn 2% cash back every quarter on up to $1,000 in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants. All other spending earns 1%.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: If you typically spend more than $1,000 per quarter on gas and dining, the rewards structure of this card might be too limiting for you. The 1% earnings on all other purchases can be easily bested by other rewards cards.

Read our full review of the Discover it Chrome.

Discover it® Cash Back
[ jump to details ]

If you have the tolerance to track changing quarterly categories, the Discover it Cash Back card can earn generous rewards in areas most people are likely to find appealing. Past examples include supermarkets, gas stations and warehouse clubs. That gives this card staying power beyond the intro 0% offer on purchases and balance transfers.

Intro APR Offer: 0% Intro APR for 14 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers (followed by the standard variable APR of 11.99% – 22.99%).

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.

Balance Transfer Fee: 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back in everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and when you pay using PayPal, up to the $1,500 quarterly maximum when you activate. All other spending earns 1% cash back.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: If you typically spend above and beyond the quarterly maximums, another card might yield better returns. The cashback match at the end of the first year could be a lucrative bonus, but it’s only a one-time reward.

Read our full review of the Discover it Cash Back Card.

HSBC Gold Mastercard® credit card *
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For those who qualify for the lower end of the HSBC Gold Mastercard’s APR range, the card could be a good pick for someone who typically carries a balance, even after the 0% promotional period expires.

Intro APR Offer: 0.00% Intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers (followed by the standard variable APR of 13.99% – 23.99%)

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: None

Balance Transfer Fee: Either $10 or 4%, whichever is greater, will apply on each balance transfer and credit card check

Rewards: None

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: You get one pass every calendar year for a late or missed payment, after which you’ll be charged a late fee of up to $39. However, you should still be aware of credit score impacts of a late payment.

As a Mastercard, it does offer some travel protections including secondary car rental insurance and travel accident insurance.

Read our full review of the HSBC Gold Mastercard.

Wells Fargo Cash Wise Visa® Card *
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The Wells Fargo Cash Wise Visa Signature offers a twist on traditional welcome bonuses. In addition to an upfront offer to $150 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first 3 months, you’ll also get boosted earnings on all purchases made via a mobile wallet like Google Pay and Apple Wallet during the first 12 months from account opening. Typically you’ll earn 1.5% cash back on your purchases but the first year mobile wallet offer boosts that earnings rate to 1.8%.

That, plus an introductory offer of 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 14.49% - 24.99% fixed APR on purchases and balance transfers based on your creditworthiness makes this card a tempting choice.

Intro APR Offer: 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers.

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: $150 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

Balance Transfer Fee: Introductory fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater, for 120 days from account opening

Rewards: None

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: The Cash Wise card carries a foreign transaction fee, making it a poor choice for international purchases. But it does come with cell phone insurance which could save you money on paying for insurance out of pocket. Be aware that redemptions by phone or online are only in $25 increments only, but can be applied to an eligible Wells Fargo bank account or credit product. Cash redemptions via a Wells Fargo ATM are redeemable in $20 increments only.

Read our full review of the Wells Fargo Cash Wise Visa Signature to learn more.

Wells Fargo Platinum Card *
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If you’re looking for a card with a lengthy 0% APR offer, the Wells Fargo Platinum Visa will deliver. You’ll get about a year and a half with 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers, plus if you pay your monthly cell phone bill with this card, you’ll get cell phone insurance too. Other extras include travel accident insurance and roadside dispatch.

Intro APR Offer: 0% Intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers (followed by the standard variable APR of 16.49% – 24.49%)

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: None

Balance Transfer Fee: Introductory fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater, for 120 days from account opening

Rewards: None.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Although it doesn’t offer rewards on your purchases, if you pay your cell phone bill with the card you’ll get the cell phone insurance which is a standard feature on Wells Fargo consumer credit cards. You’ll also have access to a suite of travel perks including auto rental collision damage waiver, roadside dispatch, travel accident insurance and travel and emergency assistance services.

Read our full review of the Wells Fargo Platinum Visa.

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
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The Citi® Diamond Preferred® card offers a nice long stretch of introductory interest to help you tackle your debt or pay down a big purchase. Unlike the 60-day window offered on many other 0% APR cards, you’ll have four months from opening your account to make a balance transfer.

Intro APR Offer: 0% Intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers (followed by the standard variable APR of 14.74% – 24.74%).

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: N/A

Balance Transfer Fee: 3% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum

Rewards: None.

Benefits and Drawbacks: There aren’t many bells or whistles with this card beyond the introductory 0% APR period but you will get special ticket access to presales and exclusive events through Citi Entertainment.

Read our full review of the Citi Diamond Preferred Card.

Citi Simplicity® Card *
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The Citi Simplicity® Card aims to keep its 0% APR offer easy. The card charges no late fees, no penalty rate and no annual fee. It also doesn’t earn any rewards so it’s ideally best used as a tool in your debt payoff plan.

Intro APR Offer: 0% Intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers (followed by the standard variable APR of 14.74% – 24.74%).

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: None

Balance Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater

Rewards: None.

Benefits and Drawbacks: The Citi Simplicity comes with Citi perks including the ability to choose your own due date and the ability to skip endless hold music by saying “representative.” But beyond the introductory period, there isn’t much incentive to use this card as it doesn’t earn rewards or offer other valuable benefits.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

The Chase Freedom Unlimited has powerful points-earning potential. This all-around workhorse of a card notches above-average earnings on select travel purchases, dining and drugstores plus solid 1.5% earnings on all other areas of spending, all for an annual fee of $0.

Intro APR offer: 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases. Then, 14.99 - 23.74% Variable.

Annual Fee: $0

Welcome Offer: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. And earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year

Balance Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase, 3% on drugstore purchases and dining including takeout and delivery and 1.5% on all other purchases.

Benefits and Drawbacks: Rewards earned on the card can be redeemed for straight cash back, travel, merchandise or pooled with another premium Ultimate Rewards-earning card for potential greater value when used for travel.

Read our full review of the Chase Freedom Unlimited.


How to Pick a 0% APR Credit Card

  • Look for the longest 0% APR offer available. More importantly, make sure that the offer you’re considering is long enough so you can pay off all or most of your debt without any interest.
  • Check for fees. If you believe you could pay off all your debt in a fairly short amount of time, it’s worth it to consider 0% APR credit cards that don’t charge a balance transfer fee.
  • Consider which perks you want. Ask yourself if you’re interested in any other credit card perks you can qualify for, such as a free FICO score on your statement each month.
  • Consider your spending style. If your goal is earning rewards on your purchases while avoiding interest, it can help to think about the type of purchases you planned to make. Some cards offer more rewards in specific bonus categories, so you should choose a card that will give you the most bang for your buck.
  • Look at the ongoing variable APR. While balance transfer credit cards can help you save on interest, remember that your card’s APR will eventually reset to the regular ongoing APR.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does purchase APR mean?

Purchase APR (Annual Percentage Rate) refers to the amount of interest you’ll pay on something you bought with your credit card if you carry a balance from month to month. Your card’s APR should be clearly spelled out when you’re approved for your card and also can be found on your monthly statement in the section showing how your interest for that billing cycle was calculated.

Most credit cards calculate interest using the average daily balance method, which means your interest is compounded and accumulates every day, based on your daily rate of interest. In other words, every day your finance charges are based on the balance from the day before. The daily rate of interest on your purchase is determined by dividing your card’s APR by 365 to find the daily rate of interest and then multiplying that number by your balance.

What does 0 APR mean?

A 0% APR offer is an introductory period without finance charges on either purchases, balance transfers or both. Getting a break from finance charges can be a welcome change from the double-digit interest typically charged on credit cards or other loans. The less you’re paying in interest, the more you can put towards paying off your debt.

What is the best credit card with no interest?

There’s no one best credit card with no interest, only what’s best for your particular circumstances. When choosing a credit card for its interest-free offer, if you’re seeking the best no interest offer on purchases, consider the length of time of the offer. 

If you’re seeking the best no interest offer on a balance transfer card, consider both the length of time and the amount it will cost if there’s a balance transfer fee. You should also look beyond the interest-free period and see if there’s value to you in the card when the promotional offer expires.

What is an intro APR?

An introductory APR is a promotional offer made by credit card companies to entice potential customers to sign up for a new card. An intro APR is typically either a 0% or ultra-low APR offer that applies for a limited period of time. When the intro offer expires the card will revert to its standard APR, which is within a range specified in the cardholder agreement.

What is a purchase interest charge?

A purchase interest charge is the amount you’ll pay in interest for anything you buy on your credit card. For example, if your credit card has an APR of 20% and you buy a new couch for $1,000, over the course of a year if you didn’t make a single payment towards your card, you’d tack on an additional $200 in interest charges. 

In practice, you typically accrue interest on a daily accumulated rate, which means every day your finance charges are based on the balance from the day before. The daily rate of interest on your purchase is determined by dividing your card’s APR—in this example 20%— by 365 to find the daily rate of interest and then multiplying that number by your balance.  

Since this method is compounding your interest charges, you’ll end up paying more than $200 in additional interest over the course of a year if you made zero payments towards that principal amount of your purchase.

Forbes adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. And earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
None
Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $1,000 in qualifying purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership
Earn 5 rewards points per dollar on up to $12,500 spent on gas, grocery, and drugstore purchases for the first 6 months (1 point per dollar thereafter)
Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
None
$150 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
None
N/A
None
Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. And earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year
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