How to Find Zero Interest Credit Cards

There are a wide variety of credit cards out there to fit everyone's unique needs. The same is true for zero interest credit cards. Just a few types are reward, airline, and cashback cards. While it would be unrealistic for anyone to offer long-term zero percent interest credit cards (money from the future will never be free), it's easy to find companies offering exactly that as an introductory or balance transfer rate--switching to a higher rate after the introductory period has expired. If you're looking for these kinds of zero interest credit cards, learn exactly how to find them.

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1Decide how long you want the 0% introductory rate to be applied. If this decision was completely in your control, anyone would choose forever, but it turns out the most common length of time offered is either 6 or 12 months.

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2Consider how various zero interest credit cards apply the rate. Some apply the 0% rate just to balance transfers, which is OK if you're trying to pay off your balance and don't plan on buying anything (see the Tips & Warnings section for an explanation), while others apply the 0% rate only to new purchases. The best zero interest credit cards apply the rate to both balance transfers and new purchases. Cash advances, on the other hand, are hardly ever covered by the introductory rate--even among the best cards.

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3Search the internet for zero interest credit cards. Search engines are a good starting point, or you can try one of these three great sites: CreditCards.com, CreditCardGuide.com, or CardRatings.com. They divide their cards into logical categories, and you can read their terms and apply for any one of them online.

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4For the longest-lasting balance transfer rate of the zero interest credit cards, consider the Bank of America Visa Signature WorldPoints Rewards Card. For 15 months, your transferred balance can just sit there not costing you a fifty-cent piece. The only fee is a one-time charge of 3% of the balance you wish to transfer.

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5If you'd prefer the lowest standard rate of the zero percent interest credit cards, consider the Citi Platinum Select Card. This card offers 12 months of 0% interest on both balance transfers and purchases before switching to the standard rate, which can be as low as 6.74 percent.

Tips & Warnings
Whether or not you get the 0% interest rate on a card, and how long the rate lasts may depend on your credit score. The same applies for the advertised standard rate. Check the agreements of the zero interest credit cards you're considering before applying to make sure you understand the details..How long the introductory rate lasts may depend on whether you transferred a balance or made a purchase. For example, the 0% rate may apply to balance transfers for 12 months, but apply to new purchases for only 6 months..For info on how to find and choose other types of cards, check the resources below..Keep in mind payment is often applied to the lowest-interest portion of your balance first. If you transfer a balance to a card that offers 0% only on balance transfers, and then make a purchase, you'll continue to pay interest on your purchase until the balance you transferred has been paid.