A 0% balance transfer card lets you move existing debt to a new card with 0% interest for up to 29 months — saving hundreds or thousands in interest. Here are the best options for 2026.
Best Balance Transfer Cards
| Card | 0% Period | Transfer Fee | APR After |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBNA Balance Transfer | Up to 29 months | 2.99% | 24.9% |
| Virgin Money Balance Transfer | Up to 26 months | 2.99% | 24.9% |
| Barclaycard Balance Transfer | Up to 24 months | 2.99% | 24.9% |
| NatWest Balance Transfer | Up to 22 months | 2.49% | 23.9% |
| Santander All in One | Up to 18 months | 3% | 24.9% |
How Much You’ll Save
| Debt | Old Card APR | 0% Period Used | Interest Saved | Transfer Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £3,000 | 22.9% | 24 months | £1,158 | £90 |
| £5,000 | 22.9% | 29 months | £2,386 | £150 |
| £8,000 | 22.9% | 29 months | £3,818 | £240 |
| £10,000 | 22.9% | 29 months | £4,772 | £300 |
Net savings = interest saved minus transfer fee. Even with the fee, savings are substantial.
Monthly Payment to Clear
| Debt | 24 months | 26 months | 29 months |
|---|---|---|---|
| £3,000 | £125 | £115 | £103 |
| £5,000 | £208 | £192 | £172 |
| £8,000 | £333 | £308 | £276 |
| £10,000 | £417 | £385 | £345 |
Key: Set up a standing order for the monthly amount needed to clear the balance before the 0% period ends.
Balance Transfer Rules
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum payment | Must pay at least the minimum each month (or 0% deal is cancelled) |
| New purchases | Usually NOT at 0% — avoid spending on this card |
| Transfer window | Usually 60–90 days from opening |
| Credit score needed | Good to excellent (700+) for the best offers |
| Existing bank rule | Can’t transfer between cards from the same bank |
Bottom Line
A 0% balance transfer is the single best tool for credit card debt in the UK. On £5,000 of debt, you’ll save over £2,000 in interest. The key rules: never miss a payment, don’t make new purchases on the card, and set up a standing order to clear the balance before the 0% ends.
See our best credit cards UK or how to build credit UK for more.
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