5 Steps to a Successful Balance Transfer

fall17_transfer2.jpg

 

So, you’ve done your homework and determined a balance transfer is right for you. You still need a plan to choose the best way to consolidate your debt.

Take a look at these tried-and-true investing strategies you can put into practice anytime.

1. Remind yourself of your goals. 

Transferring your debt does not mean it will go away. You are simply moving your debt so you can pay it off faster and stay organized. Once you complete your transfer, do not let your balances creep back up.

2. Beware of fees. 

Many credit card companies charge a fee to transfer a balance, sometimes as much as 5% of the amount you’re moving over. Read the fine print of any offer and make sure the fee is not wiping out your savings.

3. Know your rates. 

If your rate for new charges is different from your transferred balance, watch out! It’s common for companies to apply payments to your lower-rate balance first, costing you extra on the higher-rate balance.

4. Cut your cost, not your payment. 

This is not the time to make minimum payments. You’ll just lengthen the time until you’re free of debt, and you’ll reduce the benefit you get from a transfer.

5. No “Rinse and Repeat.” 

You can’t put off paying your debt by transferring your balance a second time. This is especially true if you got a low introductory rate that’s about to expire. That’s bad for your credit score and makes it less likely that you’ll qualify for the best rates on future loans.

Be Money Wise Hanscom FCU's credit card has no balance transfer fees and no  annual fees. Click to get details.

5 Ways to Whip Your Investments Into Shape
Get More from Your Membership with Online Service

About Author

Default Author Image
MoneyWisdom Newsletter

Related Posts
The Benefits of Setting Up Direct Deposits
The Benefits of Setting Up Direct Deposits
Traveling this summer? 9 credit card tips to know
Traveling this summer? 9 credit card tips to know
What You Need to Know About Buy Now, Pay Later Financing
What You Need to Know About Buy Now, Pay Later Financing

Comment

Subscribe To Blog

Subscribe to Email Updates