Maximize Your 0% APR Credit Cards

In a day when finances are getting tight for many, one of the easiest ways to reduce some of your monthly payments might be with 0% APR credit cards. This is especially true if you currently have a few other credit cards in which you are paying interest for balances carried over from month to month. Here are a few things you should look for in order to enjoy and maximize the most benefits from a new 0% APR credit card.

Length Of Special Offer

The length of the introductory offer is what will really make a difference in your payments. Some 0% APR credit card offers will only give you up to three months worth of interest free benefits. Look for the cards that will give you up to 15 months worth. This way, you won't need to turn around and get another card - when the special deal ends. Remember that after the special offer the regular interest rate kicks in and you will begin to pay interest on whatever portion remains, plus the interest on your new purchases - unless you pay the card off each month. Also, keep in mind that your current credit rating may effect the actual length of these benefits, too.

Savings with Balance Transfers

Balance transfers hold the greatest potential for the most savings with this type of card. By transferring balances from your higher interest cards onto your new 0% APR credit card, you can definitely save a lot of money. Before you do, it might be a good idea to find out just how much interest you are now paying on all of your cards each month. Whatever total you come up with - that is how much you can save on the new card. It's that simple. Even more interesting, is the fact that you also could save on new purchases, too.

When you compare various card offers, you will want to find out if there is a fee connected with the balance transfer. Many cards will allow you to do this at no cost, but other credit cards may charge up to 4.99% for a transfer. Other cards will put a low rate on interest (3.99% to 4.99%) on your balance transfers for each month it is not paid off. And some cards will only permit you to make a balance transfer when you apply for the card - it even has to be on the application. Balance transfers also may not enjoy the same time length as your regular purchases. Some may be as short as 3 months, while other purchases may have that benefit for up to 15 months on the same card.

Rate of Interest

After the special introductory period runs out, you will have to contend with the regular rate of interest for the card. Of course, if you pay it off each month then this will not concern you - since you will continue to get the benefits of your 0% APR credit card. Otherwise, you will either want to make sure you get as low of an interest rate as possible when you apply, or, be sure to get a new 0% APR credit card before the special time period ends.

Other Benefits Available

And if just having the interest rate benefits isn’t enough, there are a number of other benefits, too. The options that are best for you do vary with your particular situation, but some cards have several reward benefits options. Some cards will give you air miles for your travel expenses, and will even provide triple points on your “everyday” purchase items. Other cards will give you rebates or rewards based on a point system. These are redeemable through various reward programs, or in the form of rebates that are sent to you from time to time. So, apart from the 0% APR, there are also many other ways to benefit and save money – perhaps thousands of dollars each year.