If you’re feeling overwhelmed by high-interest credit card debt, you’re not alone.

Many people struggle to make progress on their balances because so much of their monthly payment goes toward interest rather than the principal.

Fortunately, there’s a strategic way to break this cycle: using balance transfer credit cards.

A balance transfer card allows you to move your existing credit card debt to a new card with a low or 0% introductory interest rate for a set period—often 12 to 21 months.

This means that, for a limited time, every dollar you pay goes directly toward reducing your debt, not lining the pockets of your creditors.

How to Use Balance Transfer Cards Effectively

The key to success with balance transfer cards is to have a clear plan. Here’s a simple strategy:

• Assess Your Debt: Add up your high-interest credit card balances and note the interest rates.

• Shop for the Right Card: Look for a balance transfer card with a long 0% introductory APR period and low or no transfer fees.

• Transfer Your Balances: Move as much of your high-interest debt as you can to the new card, staying within the credit limit.

• Make a Repayment Plan: Divide your total transferred balance by the number of months in the intro period. Commit to paying at least that amount each month to pay off the debt before the promotional rate ends.

• Avoid New Debt: Don’t use the new card for purchases, and avoid adding new debt elsewhere.

• Track Your Progress: Monitor your payments and stay disciplined. Set up automatic payments if possible.

Balance transfer cards aren’t a magic fix, but when used wisely, they can give you the breathing room you need to pay off debt faster and save hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in interest.

Ready to take control of your finances? Here are some of the best balance transfer credit cards available right now: