If you want to borrow money without paying interest, a 0% interest-free credit card can be a great option. These cards allow you to make purchases or transfer existing debts without extra charges for a set period.
In this guide, we'll explain:
- How 0% interest credit cards work
- The best 0% purchase and balance transfer cards
- Tips for using them wisely
- How to improve your chances of approval
How Do 0% Interest Credit Cards Work?
A 0% interest credit card gives you a period (usually 3–24 months) where you pay no interest on:
- Purchases (new spending)
- Balance transfers (moving debt from another card)
After the 0% period ends, the card's standard APR (interest rate) applies.
Two Main Types of 0% Cards:
- 0% Purchase Cards – No interest on new spending for a set time.
- 0% Balance Transfer Cards – No interest on moved debts for a set time (usually with a small transfer fee).
Best 0% Purchase Credit Cards in the UK
If you plan to make big purchases (like furniture or electronics), these cards let you spread the cost interest-free.
1. Barclaycard 0% Purchase Card
0% period: Up to 21 months
Representative APR: 24.9% (after 0% ends)
Pros: Long interest-free period, good for big purchases
Cons: Requires good credit score
Visit Barclaycard Official Site
2. Santander All in One Credit Card
0% period: 20 months
Representative APR: 23.7%
Pros: No fees on balance transfers for first 60 days
Cons: Must spend £3,000 in first 3 months to get 0%
3. HSBC 0% Purchase Credit Card
0% period: 15 months
Representative APR: 23.9%
Pros: Good for HSBC customers, easy online management
Cons: Shorter 0% period than others
4. NatWest/RBS 0% Purchase Card
0% period: 18 months
Representative APR: 23.9%
Pros: Strong customer service, good mobile app
Cons: Not the longest 0% offer
Best 0% Balance Transfer Credit Cards in the UK
If you have existing credit card debt, moving it to a 0% balance transfer card can save you money on interest.
1. MBNA 0% Balance Transfer Card
0% period: Up to 29 months
Balance transfer fee: 2.99%
Representative APR: 23.9%
Pros: One of the longest 0% periods
Cons: High transfer fee
2. Virgin Money 0% Balance Transfer Card
0% period: 26 months
Balance transfer fee: 2.99%
Representative APR: 23.9%
Pros: Good for Virgin customers, long 0% term
Cons: No rewards or cashback
Visit Virgin Money Official Site
3. Sainsbury's Bank 0% Balance Transfer Card
0% period: 25 months
Balance transfer fee: 2.89%
Representative APR: 23.9%
Pros: Nectar points on spending
Cons: Must transfer within 60 days
Visit Sainsbury's Bank Official Site
4. Tesco Bank 0% Balance Transfer Card
0% period: 24 months
Balance transfer fee: 2.69%
Representative APR: 23.9%
Pros: Clubcard points on spending
Cons: Shorter 0% period than MBNA
Visit Tesco Bank Official Site
How to Choose the Best 0% Credit Card
1. Check the 0% Period Length
Longer = more time to pay off debt interest-free.
2. Look at Fees
Balance transfer cards usually charge 2–3% of the amount moved.
Some purchase cards have no fees.
3. Check Your Credit Score
The best 0% cards require good to excellent credit.
Use free checkers like:
4. Plan Repayments
Divide your debt by the 0% months to know the minimum monthly payment.
Example: £1,200 debt on a 12-month 0% card = £100/month.
5. Avoid New Spending on Balance Transfer Cards
New purchases may not be at 0% and could accrue interest.
How to Improve Your Chances of Approval
Banks prefer borrowers with good credit history. To boost approval chances:
- Check your credit report for errors (Equifax, TransUnion)
- Pay bills on time (late payments hurt your score)
- Reduce existing debt before applying
- Avoid multiple applications in a short time
Risks of 0% Credit Cards
⚠ High APR after 0% ends – If you don't clear the debt, interest jumps to 20–30%.
⚠ Missed payments can cancel 0% – Always pay at least the minimum.
⚠ Balance transfer fees – Usually 2–3% of the amount moved.
Best 0% Credit Cards Summary
| Card Type | Best For | Top Pick | 0% Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase | New spending | Barclaycard | 21 months |
| Balance Transfer | Clearing debt | MBNA | 29 months |
Final Tips for Using 0% Cards Wisely
- Set up a direct debit to avoid missed payments
- Don't withdraw cash (high fees + interest)
- Clear the debt before 0% ends to avoid high APR
- Compare cards before applying (use MoneySavingExpert)
Conclusion
A 0% interest credit card can save you money if used correctly. The best card depends on your needs:
- For new purchases → Barclaycard (21 months 0%)
- For debt transfers → MBNA (29 months 0%)
Always repay on time and avoid overspending. Check your credit score before applying to boost approval chances.
For more financial advice, visit:
Would you like help finding the best card for your situation? Let us know in the comments!
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