Shift the Load and Save Some Interest, But Play by the Rules
A balance transfer credit card is a type of credit card that permits you to shift outstanding balances from another card onto it. Picture two mules standing next to one another. One is carrying nothing, the other is loaded with 18 suitcases and a very hefty fellow named Oliver. The one carrying the weight is about to suffer a spinal collapse, so good ol’ Ollie hops on the second mule to keep the first mule happy and healthy. That’s basically a perfect example of balance transfer credit cards, assuming the mule now carrying Oliver has a lower interest rate than the first one, but I’ll get into that later.
There are very few cards specifically designated as only balance transfer credit cards anymore. Most cards are thrown together with balance transfer capabilities, a low introductory APR, a rewards program, and a trendy sponsor to make the card look prettier, among other possible features. There are a few cards that emphasize balance transfers, though. They are cards that have lower APR and interest rates than other cards (hence the lure of balance transfers, same balance, less interest,...