Money Management

[[{“value”:”Becoming a homeowner was, without question, one of the most exciting financial milestones of my life. But I’m no mortgage expert, and there were definitely some things I had to learn along the way.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Here are three things I learned during — or after — the home-buying process, all of which I’ll be keeping in mind for next time.1. 15-year vs. 30-year isn’t just about how quickly you pay it offCommon knowledge might tell you that a 15-year mortgage, if you can afford it, is ideal. In exchange for higher monthly payments, you’ll enjoy a lower interest rate and pay off your mortgage twice as fast.But a 30-year mortgage may actually be the better financial choice, because it leaves you with more cash to invest every month. Warren Buffett, for example, could’ve easily bought his home in cash. Instead he took out a 30-year mortgage and invested what was left. If your investments earn more than the additional interest you’re paying, then you’re coming out ahead.You don’t have to be like Buffett. But the point here is that the flexibility of a 30-year mortgage might mean more to you than the lower interest on a 15-year mortgage.2. Buy down your rate if you plan to stay a whileOne trick I was able to take advantage of: paying more upfront to lower my interest rate in a process called “buying points.”Typically, each “point” costs about 1% of your loan amount and lowers your rate by 0.25%. If you have a loan of $300,000 and a 7% interest rate, for example, you could pay $3,000 to lower your rate to 6.75%.If you plan to stay in your home long term, buying down your rate can save you thousands in interest. But if you’re not sure how long you’ll stay, it might not be worth it.In my dream financial scenario, I’m able to hold on to this starter home and rent it out when I move away — which means buying down my rate is absolutely the move.With the lender I chose, I was able to substantially buy down my rate and enjoy an affordable monthly payment for years to come. If you’re in the market for a mortgage, compare multiple offers from the best mortgage lenders to ensure you come away with the best rate and terms for your situation.3. Be prepared for all sorts of unexpected costsHere’s the thing I didn’t exactly see coming: thousands of dollars in onetime charges.Your down payment is far from the only thing you’ll have to budget for. You’ve also got closing costs, which include things like lender fees, title insurance, and appraisal. All told, they’ll typically cost you 2%-5% of the home’s price. For a $300,000 home, that’s $6,000 to $15,000.Then you’ve got property taxes. And homeowner’s insurance. And HOA fees. And then you factor in moving costs, appliances, furniture, renovation, repairs…In short, be prepared. I’d recommend having tens of thousands of dollars stashed safely in an emergency fund for whatever you need in those first few months of homeownership. You’ll be much better off than I was.Apply for a flexible, manageable mortgage todayBuying a home can seem complicated, but it’s also fulfilling. It’s easily one of the best financial decisions I’ve ever made. Just make sure you know what to expect going in and put yourself on the best financial footing from the start.When it’s time to compare offers, check out our list of the best mortgage lenders to get started.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Becoming a homeowner was, without question, one of the most exciting financial milestones of my life. But I’m no mortgage expert, and there were definitely some things I had to learn along the way.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

Here are three things I learned during — or after — the home-buying process, all of which I’ll be keeping in mind for next time.

1. 15-year vs. 30-year isn’t just about how quickly you pay it off

Common knowledge might tell you that a 15-year mortgage, if you can afford it, is ideal. In exchange for higher monthly payments, you’ll enjoy a lower interest rate and pay off your mortgage twice as fast.

But a 30-year mortgage may actually be the better financial choice, because it leaves you with more cash to invest every month. Warren Buffett, for example, could’ve easily bought his home in cash. Instead he took out a 30-year mortgage and invested what was left. If your investments earn more than the additional interest you’re paying, then you’re coming out ahead.

You don’t have to be like Buffett. But the point here is that the flexibility of a 30-year mortgage might mean more to you than the lower interest on a 15-year mortgage.

2. Buy down your rate if you plan to stay a while

One trick I was able to take advantage of: paying more upfront to lower my interest rate in a process called “buying points.”

Typically, each “point” costs about 1% of your loan amount and lowers your rate by 0.25%. If you have a loan of $300,000 and a 7% interest rate, for example, you could pay $3,000 to lower your rate to 6.75%.

If you plan to stay in your home long term, buying down your rate can save you thousands in interest. But if you’re not sure how long you’ll stay, it might not be worth it.

In my dream financial scenario, I’m able to hold on to this starter home and rent it out when I move away — which means buying down my rate is absolutely the move.

3. Be prepared for all sorts of unexpected costs

Here’s the thing I didn’t exactly see coming: thousands of dollars in onetime charges.

Your down payment is far from the only thing you’ll have to budget for. You’ve also got closing costs, which include things like lender fees, title insurance, and appraisal. All told, they’ll typically cost you 2%-5% of the home’s price. For a $300,000 home, that’s $6,000 to $15,000.

Then you’ve got property taxes. And homeowner’s insurance. And HOA fees. And then you factor in moving costs, appliances, furniture, renovation, repairs…

In short, be prepared. I’d recommend having tens of thousands of dollars stashed safely in an emergency fund for whatever you need in those first few months of homeownership. You’ll be much better off than I was.

Apply for a flexible, manageable mortgage today

Buying a home can seem complicated, but it’s also fulfilling. It’s easily one of the best financial decisions I’ve ever made. Just make sure you know what to expect going in and put yourself on the best financial footing from the start.

When it’s time to compare offers, check out our list of the best mortgage lenders to get started.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”I almost fainted when I saw the cost of a business class ticket to Australia.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Eight. Thousand. Dollars.Meanwhile, economy tickets were about $1,200 — so I did what most people do. I booked the cheapest seat and braced for 15 hours of leg cramps.But then something cool happened. A few days before my flight, I got an email offering a last-minute upgrade. For just a few hundred bucks more, I could upgrade to premium economy. And for less than a thousand, I could snag business class! Lie-flat seat, better meals, the whole deal.You don’t have to pay full price to fly business or first class. There are sneaky ways to score serious upgrades for way fewer miles (or dollars).Here are some tricks to try before your next big trip.1. Use points and miles strategicallyMany airlines allow you to use frequent flyer miles to upgrade from economy to business class. One of the best ways to earn miles is with a travel rewards credit card. Some of the best cards can earn upwards of 5x points or miles per dollar you spend.If you don’t have enough miles for a full upgrade, you can pay with a mix of miles and cash. This can save you hundreds compared to booking business class outright.Let your points do the heavy lifting. Check out our best travel cards to upgrade your travel.2. Bid for an upgradeSome airlines let you throw in a lowball offer for a business class seat. It’s like eBay, but for legroom. If they accept your bid, you’re sipping bubbly at 35,000 feet for a fraction of the original seat price.How to increase your chances bidding for upgrades:Bid slightly above the minimum: Since most people bid just the minimum, you can win with just a few dollars more.Factor in demand: Look at the seating chart if possible and see if there’s a ton of availability in the cabin. Low demand means you can bid less.Be patient: Bidding closer to the flight date can sometimes increase your chances of winning an upgrade.3. Take advantage of airline loyalty statusMost airline loyalty programs are free to join, so there’s no harm in becoming a member. While business class upgrades are usually offered to frequent flyers, even lower-tier status levels can get you discounted upgrade offers at check-in.Also, some airline credit cards offer automatic elite perks that can help with upgrades.Psst! Want VIP lounge access before your flight? Check out these top luxury credit cards that can get you in the door.4. Ask at check-in or the gateSometimes, the simplest strategy is just asking. You don’t have to be a sweet-talker or come up with a sob story. Just be authentic.If business class seats are available, some airlines offer last-minute upgrades at heavily discounted rates when you check in online or at the airport. You can also ask the gate agent if any upgrades are available. This works best if you’re polite and traveling alone, and the flight isn’t oversold.5. Fly during off-peak timesTraveling during off-peak times increases your chances of securing an upgrade. That’s because flights are less likely to be full, and business class tickets are cheaper to come by.Red-eye and midday flights tend to have more availability compared to popular morning and evening routes. And mid-week days like Tuesdays and Wednesdays are less busy than weekends.A little planning can unlock big upgrades. Don’t settle for cramped seats if you don’t have to.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

I almost fainted when I saw the cost of a business class ticket to Australia.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

Eight. Thousand. Dollars.

Meanwhile, economy tickets were about $1,200 — so I did what most people do. I booked the cheapest seat and braced for 15 hours of leg cramps.

But then something cool happened. A few days before my flight, I got an email offering a last-minute upgrade. For just a few hundred bucks more, I could upgrade to premium economy. And for less than a thousand, I could snag business class! Lie-flat seat, better meals, the whole deal.

You don’t have to pay full price to fly business or first class. There are sneaky ways to score serious upgrades for way fewer miles (or dollars).

Here are some tricks to try before your next big trip.

1. Use points and miles strategically

Many airlines allow you to use frequent flyer miles to upgrade from economy to business class. One of the best ways to earn miles is with a travel rewards credit card. Some of the best cards can earn upwards of 5x points or miles per dollar you spend.

If you don’t have enough miles for a full upgrade, you can pay with a mix of miles and cash. This can save you hundreds compared to booking business class outright.

Let your points do the heavy lifting. Check out our best travel cards to upgrade your travel.

2. Bid for an upgrade

Some airlines let you throw in a lowball offer for a business class seat. It’s like eBay, but for legroom. If they accept your bid, you’re sipping bubbly at 35,000 feet for a fraction of the original seat price.

How to increase your chances bidding for upgrades:

• Bid slightly above the minimum: Since most people bid just the minimum, you can win with just a few dollars more.
• Factor in demand: Look at the seating chart if possible and see if there’s a ton of availability in the cabin. Low demand means you can bid less.
• Be patient: Bidding closer to the flight date can sometimes increase your chances of winning an upgrade.

3. Take advantage of airline loyalty status

Most airline loyalty programs are free to join, so there’s no harm in becoming a member. While business class upgrades are usually offered to frequent flyers, even lower-tier status levels can get you discounted upgrade offers at check-in.

Also, some airline credit cards offer automatic elite perks that can help with upgrades.

Psst! Want VIP lounge access before your flight? Check out these top luxury credit cards that can get you in the door.

4. Ask at check-in or the gate

Sometimes, the simplest strategy is just asking. You don’t have to be a sweet-talker or come up with a sob story. Just be authentic.

If business class seats are available, some airlines offer last-minute upgrades at heavily discounted rates when you check in online or at the airport. You can also ask the gate agent if any upgrades are available. This works best if you’re polite and traveling alone, and the flight isn’t oversold.

5. Fly during off-peak times

Traveling during off-peak times increases your chances of securing an upgrade. That’s because flights are less likely to be full, and business class tickets are cheaper to come by.

Red-eye and midday flights tend to have more availability compared to popular morning and evening routes. And mid-week days like Tuesdays and Wednesdays are less busy than weekends.

A little planning can unlock big upgrades. Don’t settle for cramped seats if you don’t have to.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Back when I landed one of my first “real” jobs, my manager told me to start putting money into our company 401(k) plan.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. I had no idea what a 401(k) was at the time. But I idolized the guy, so I followed his lead.Fast forward 17 years, and that single account has about $236,000 in it. And I only worked there for five years! That’s the power of treating your paycheck the right way.To become a millionaire, you have to think like one. And it all starts with how you treat your paycheck.Pay yourself first (and automate it)Before millionaires pay their bills and go shopping, they’ve already put money aside for themselves.They automatically transfer a portion of their paycheck to a savings account, retirement plan, or brokerage account.The trick is setting up automatic transfers. That way money is saved without even thinking about it. There’s no forgetting, making excuses, or “accidently” spending it.Here’s how you can do it, too:Decide how much to save. Start with 10% of your paycheck if you can, but less is OK to begin.Set up automatic transfers on payday. If you have a company 401(k), use it! If not, opening an IRA is a good first step.Gradually increase savings each year. Ideally, you’ll want to put away 15%-20% of each paycheck for retirement. It becomes easier over time as you earn more and get used to saving.Don’t let cash sit in checkingIt’s smart to keep some cash handy. But where you store your cash makes a huge difference.While most people park their money in checking accounts, millionaires use high-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) because they earn more interest (way more).Right now the average checking account earns just 0.07% APY, while top HYSAs are paying around 4.10% APY. That’s a huge difference.Here’s what that looks like with a $10,000 balance over one year:AccountInterest EarnedChecking (0.07%)$7HYSA (4.10%)$410Data source: Author’s calculations.Don’t have an HYSA yet? Leaving cash in a checking account is costing you. Start earning more today with one of these top high-yield savings accounts.Use credit cards the right wayMillionaires don’t carry balances. They pay their cards off in full, every month, to avoid interest charges and build up their credit score.But they also make the rewards system work in their favor. That means using cards that match their lifestyle and earn solid perks on everyday spending.For example:A flat-rate 2% cash back card might earn $600 a year on $30,000 in annual spending.A travel card could earn valuable points on dining and flights – plus perks like trip insurance and rental car coverage.If you’re a business owner, paying for work-related expenses on a business card can earn you cash-back or service credits.The key is using the right type of card that rewards you for the purchases you’re already making. And make sure the value outweighs any annual fee.Looking for better rewards? Compare the best credit cards of May 2025 here and see what fits your lifestyle.Millionaires look at ROI, not just price.Millionaires don’t just ask “What does this cost?” They ask “What do I get out of it?” They think about long-term value when buying things.For example: A $1,500 vacation might seem “frivolous.” But if it strengthens your marriage, recharges your mental health, and helps you perform better at work — that’s a great return on investment.When you view spending as an investment (not just a cost), it becomes easier to align your paycheck with your values.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Joel O’Leary has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Barclays Plc. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Back when I landed one of my first “real” jobs, my manager told me to start putting money into our company 401(k) plan.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

I had no idea what a 401(k) was at the time. But I idolized the guy, so I followed his lead.

Fast forward 17 years, and that single account has about $236,000 in it. And I only worked there for five years! That’s the power of treating your paycheck the right way.

To become a millionaire, you have to think like one. And it all starts with how you treat your paycheck.

Pay yourself first (and automate it)

Before millionaires pay their bills and go shopping, they’ve already put money aside for themselves.

They automatically transfer a portion of their paycheck to a savings account, retirement plan, or brokerage account.

The trick is setting up automatic transfers. That way money is saved without even thinking about it. There’s no forgetting, making excuses, or “accidently” spending it.

Here’s how you can do it, too:

1. Decide how much to save. Start with 10% of your paycheck if you can, but less is OK to begin.
2. Set up automatic transfers on payday. If you have a company 401(k), use it! If not, opening an IRA is a good first step.
3. Gradually increase savings each year. Ideally, you’ll want to put away 15%-20% of each paycheck for retirement. It becomes easier over time as you earn more and get used to saving.

Don’t let cash sit in checking

It’s smart to keep some cash handy. But where you store your cash makes a huge difference.

While most people park their money in checking accounts, millionaires use high-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) because they earn more interest (way more).

Right now the average checking account earns just 0.07% APY, while top HYSAs are paying around 4.10% APY. That’s a huge difference.

Here’s what that looks like with a $10,000 balance over one year:

Use credit cards the right way

Millionaires don’t carry balances. They pay their cards off in full, every month, to avoid interest charges and build up their credit score.

But they also make the rewards system work in their favor. That means using cards that match their lifestyle and earn solid perks on everyday spending.

For example:

• A flat-rate 2% cash back card might earn $600 a year on $30,000 in annual spending.
• A travel card could earn valuable points on dining and flights – plus perks like trip insurance and rental car coverage.
• If you’re a business owner, paying for work-related expenses on a business card can earn you cash-back or service credits.

The key is using the right type of card that rewards you for the purchases you’re already making. And make sure the value outweighs any annual fee.

Looking for better rewards? Compare the best credit cards of May 2025 here and see what fits your lifestyle.

Millionaires look at ROI, not just price.

Millionaires don’t just ask “What does this cost?” They ask “What do I get out of it?” They think about long-term value when buying things.

For example: A $1,500 vacation might seem “frivolous.” But if it strengthens your marriage, recharges your mental health, and helps you perform better at work — that’s a great return on investment.

When you view spending as an investment (not just a cost), it becomes easier to align your paycheck with your values.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Joel O’Leary has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Barclays Plc. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”My buddy once bought a $4,000 engagement ring on a credit card. Romantic? Yes! Responsible?? Not so much — especially when you’re paying an APR of 20%.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. I told him to check out a 0% intro APR balance transfer card. Ten minutes later, he had a plan to crush his credit card debt and save over $1,000 in interest.Did he ask me to be a groomsman in the wedding? Nope. I didn’t even get a speech.Still, I’ve helped a bunch of friends get out of debt using this balance transfer strategy. If you’ve got high-interest credit card debt, it could work for you too.How a balance transfer card worksA balance transfer is when you move debt from one credit card to another. If the new credit card has a 0% intro offer, you can pay off debt fast without interest bogging you down.Here’s the process:First, you apply for a new credit card that offers 0% intro APR on balance transfers. Note, most of these cards require good credit (670+ FICO® Score).Next, you transfer your old credit card balance to the new card. There will be a transfer fee, usually 3%-5% of the balance amount.Lastly, you pay enough each month to crush your debt before the 0% intro APR period ends. That way you won’t pay any interest.Most balance transfer cards give you 12 to 21 months of 0% interest. That’s a huge amount of time to make serious progress paying off existing debt.How much interest you can actually saveLet’s say you’ve got $4,000 in credit card debt at a 20% APR. And let’s assume you’re paying $120 per month as a minimum payment.At this rate, it will take you 4 years and 2 months to pay off, and you’ll pay $1,887 in interest. Ouch!But if you move that balance to a card with 0% intro APR for 18 months, and increase your payments to $225 per month, you would be debt free in 18 months and pay $0 in interest.Old CardNew 0% Intro APR CardMonthly payment$120$225Payoff time50 months18 monthsInterest paid$1,887$0Data source: Author’s calculations.Keep in mind there is a balance transfer fee. If we factor in a fee of 3%, it will actually cost $120. But that’s a drop in the bucket compared to how much interest you save.The real trick to this strategy is paying off your full balance within the 0% intro APR period.Want to press pause on your interest payments? Check out one of the top balance transfer cards available now and give yourself the convenience of nearly two years interest-free to pay off purchases and balance transfers.​​Ready to stop paying interest?Balance transfers aren’t magic, but they are a smart way to wipe out debt — if you plan it right.Just make sure to factor in any transfer fees, and aim to pay off your balance before the 0% intro APR window ends.It worked for my buddy. And it can work for you, too.Explore today’s best balance transfer credit cards offering up to 21 months of 0% intro APR. Make a plan to crush your debt once and for all.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

My buddy once bought a $4,000 engagement ring on a credit card. Romantic? Yes! Responsible?? Not so much — especially when you’re paying an APR of 20%.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

I told him to check out a 0% intro APR balance transfer card. Ten minutes later, he had a plan to crush his credit card debt and save over $1,000 in interest.

Did he ask me to be a groomsman in the wedding? Nope. I didn’t even get a speech.

Still, I’ve helped a bunch of friends get out of debt using this balance transfer strategy. If you’ve got high-interest credit card debt, it could work for you too.

How a balance transfer card works

A balance transfer is when you move debt from one credit card to another. If the new credit card has a 0% intro offer, you can pay off debt fast without interest bogging you down.

Here’s the process:

• First, you apply for a new credit card that offers 0% intro APR on balance transfers. Note, most of these cards require good credit (670+ FICO® Score).
• Next, you transfer your old credit card balance to the new card. There will be a transfer fee, usually 3%-5% of the balance amount.
• Lastly, you pay enough each month to crush your debt before the 0% intro APR period ends. That way you won’t pay any interest.

Most balance transfer cards give you 12 to 21 months of 0% interest. That’s a huge amount of time to make serious progress paying off existing debt.

How much interest you can actually save

Let’s say you’ve got $4,000 in credit card debt at a 20% APR. And let’s assume you’re paying $120 per month as a minimum payment.

At this rate, it will take you 4 years and 2 months to pay off, and you’ll pay $1,887 in interest. Ouch!

But if you move that balance to a card with 0% intro APR for 18 months, and increase your payments to $225 per month, you would be debt free in 18 months and pay $0 in interest.

Keep in mind there is a balance transfer fee. If we factor in a fee of 3%, it will actually cost $120. But that’s a drop in the bucket compared to how much interest you save.

The real trick to this strategy is paying off your full balance within the 0% intro APR period.

Want to press pause on your interest payments? Check out one of the top balance transfer cards available now and give yourself the convenience of nearly two years interest-free to pay off purchases and balance transfers.

​​Ready to stop paying interest?

Balance transfers aren’t magic, but they are a smart way to wipe out debt — if you plan it right.

Just make sure to factor in any transfer fees, and aim to pay off your balance before the 0% intro APR window ends.

It worked for my buddy. And it can work for you, too.

Explore today’s best balance transfer credit cards offering up to 21 months of 0% intro APR. Make a plan to crush your debt once and for all.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

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