From a common - sense standpoint, you did the right thing by accepting this 0 - interest card offer, especially since you had
existing card balances incurring (probably) high interest.
Balance transfer credit cards give consumers the option to
transfer existing card balances from other cards with the theory that it is easier to pay down one debt, especially at a zero - percent interest rate.
That law's major provisions — set to take effect on Feb. 22 — will restrict banks» ability to raise rates
on existing card balances.
The higher rate is effective on
the existing card balance and future balances for up to six months, after which the issuer must review the account activity.
And if you're really late — I'm talking more than 60 days delinquent — the card issuer can raise the interest rate on
your existing card balance.
Existing Card Balance: If you have balance on the card or other credit cards (that is, if you keep more than one credit card), the amount you can charge on your credit card will reduce.
Credit card users are protected from retroactive interest rate increases on
existing card balances and have more time to pay their monthly bills, greater advance notice of changes in credit card terms and the right to opt out of significant changes in terms on their accounts.
BankAmericard ® credit card offers a long introductory interest rate period for balance transfers (0 % intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases and any balance transfers made in the first 60 days with 13.49 % - 23.49 % variable APR thereafter), which makes this card ideal for you if you're planning on transferring
an existing card balance to this card and repaying it within the interest - free period so that you don't have to pay any interest.