Balance transfer card data: average intro periods, fees, success rates, and how much Americans save by transferring balances.
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Average Intro APR Period | 16.5 months | 0% APR duration |
| Longest Intro Period | 21 months | Top cards available |
| Average Transfer Fee | 3.25% | Of amount transferred |
| Transfer Fee Range | 3-5% | Varies by card |
| Average Balance Transferred | $5,800 | Per transfer |
| Average Interest Saved | $1,450 | During 0% period |
| Post-Intro APR | 20-25% | Regular rate after promo |
| Success Rate (Paid Off in Time) | 48% | Less than half pay off before promo ends |
| Repeat Transferers | 35% | Transfer again when promo ends |
| Cards with No Transfer Fee | 3 cards | Rare but available |
| Current Debt | Annual Interest | Transfer Fee | Net Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $3,000 at 22% APR | $660 interest/year | $98 fee (3%) | Save $562/year |
| $5,000 at 22% APR | $1,100 interest/year | $163 fee (3%) | Save $937/year |
| $8,000 at 22% APR | $1,760 interest/year | $260 fee (3%) | Save $1,500/year |
| $10,000 at 22% APR | $2,200 interest/year | $325 fee (3%) | Save $1,875/year |
| $15,000 at 22% APR | $3,300 interest/year | $488 fee (3%) | Save $2,812/year |
The average intro period is 16.5 months. The best cards offer 21 months at 0% APR. Transfer fees average 3.25% of the amount transferred.
Yes, if you can pay off the balance before the intro period ends. Transferring $8,000 at 22% APR saves approximately $1,500/year after the transfer fee. However, only 48% of people pay off in time.
The regular APR kicks in, typically 20-25%. Any remaining balance starts accruing interest at the full rate. About 35% of people transfer again to a new 0% card.