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No-interest credit card a deal?

Bankrate Audio » No-interest Credit Card A Deal?

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Credit cards that initially let you pay zero interest are becoming more common than they were just a couple of years ago. Should you take the bait? I'm Doug Whiteman with your Bankrate.com Personal Finance Minute.

No-interest credit cards can offer you a good deal if you use them correctly and sign up for the right reasons. That means don't be tempted by a bonus offer, such as $100 cash back, if you have to make unnecessary purchases with the card just to get the incentive. If you're lured by the card's air miles or other rewards program, consider whether you'll actually take advantage of it, or if you have another card with better rewards.

If you think you'll want to transfer a balance from another card to the no-interest card, beware of transfer fees, usually about three percent of the amount you're moving over.

Experts say you should also consider the "go-to" interest rate once the zero percent "teaser" period ends, and whether the card has an annual fee. It may be expensive to hold on to the card after the introductory period is over.

For more on where to find zero percent credit card deals, visit the credit cards section at Bankrate.com. I'm Doug Whiteman.

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