How Balance Transfers Impact Credit Scores: Dangers & Insights

How Credit Card Balance Transfers Can Damage Your Credit Rating

How can balance transfers affect your credit score negatively?

Since the banks and finance providers have been castigated for the way they seemingly indiscriminately awarded credit to people who could ill afford it, the chances of being accepted for loans and credit cards have decreased. Concurrently, there is a greater focus on individual's being aware of how credit works and what their financial behaviors means in terms of a credit score and history.

Why Balance Transfers Are So Readily Available

Concurrently, there is a greater focus on individual's being aware of how credit works and what their financial behaviors means in terms of a credit score and history.

The so called Credit Crunch has engendered a change in behaviours and has led to banks not only thinking about whom they extend credit to but also how they lend it.

It has also meant these card issuers have had to find new ways to increase custom.

Debt Stressed?

If you're struggling to pay your debts and covering living expenses, we're here to help. Through our national panel of Debt Management specialists, we can help customers with $10k or more in debt by consolidating your existing loans, stopping Debt collectors from contacting you and re-negotiating repayments on your terms!

... start your free debt analysis ...

The market has been hit with a whole slew of prepaid credit cards but also balance transfer offers have become a major marketing tool in the battle for new customers.

What is a balance transfer?

Quite simply, a balance transfer is moving the outstanding balance from one credit card to another that has a lower rate of interest. It is a simple way of reducing your monthly repayments on your card balance.

Why are they so attractive right now?

The credit card marketplace is highly competitive and these transfer is a relatively low risk option for the issuers to attract new customers. The need to attract new customers without creating a whole new generation of credit card owners unable to pay their debts has resulted in very attractive credit cards with transfer offers. Most major US issuing banks now have 0 balance credit cards in their portfolio of financial products. With offers extending from zero interest from 3 months right up to 18 months, there appears to be a credit card war raging with each bank trying to introduce the most attractive transfer offers.

Why balance transfer offers are not a get out of jail free card

The mere idea of reducing your monthly out goings by transferring existing credit card balances to a new card or cards where you can obtain an extended interest free period is very enticing. Prima facie, it seems entirely logical and indeed, eminently sensible. There are however, certain considerations that need to be taken into account before simply responding to the click here or apply now button on 0 balance interest credit cards:

You can adversely affect your credit score

Every time you make an application for a new card or apply for new credit of any form (loan, mortgage, cash advance and hire purchase), there is a note made on your credit file and your score is impacted with a reduction.
If you apply for multiple credit cards or respond to a number of balance transfer offers in a short period of time, there is a significant impact on your credit score.

There are fees involved

No credit is for free; even those deals with 0% interest on balances transferred will have an associated fee - after all, these card provider still has to make money from your transaction even if you are paying zero interest. Typically, balance transfer fees can be between 3-5% of the balance transferred meaning that when your interest free period starts it is with a higher amount that you had on your old card.

The APR after the initial offer period is high

One of the major pitfalls you could fall into is to take advantage of a balance transfer offer only to find that after the offer expiry date, the APR is higher than you were paying on your original credit card from where the balance was transferred.

It is imperative that you read the small print and are fully conversant with the interest rate you will be paying after the interest free period.

What not to use balance transfers for

When you are facing debt issues it is easy to succumb to ways of managing your finances that seem entirely logical at the time. There are two main ways of not managing your finances with balance transfer offers:

Do not use it as an excuse simply to get another credit card

If you are transferring a balance the temptation is there to keep the original credit card thereby increasing the availability of the credit at your disposal. This is a definite no-no unless you can absolutely afford the repayments on all of your cards
Do not use balance transfers as a way to avoid paying your debt.

The attraction of balance transfer offers does actually promote a way of carrying the debt; instead of paying off the debt you merely transfer it from one card to another and repeat after each introductory rate expires

In conclusion, are balance transfer offers and 0 balance transfer credit cards a bad thing? No! Not at all, but like every form of credit, they require close scrutiny before application and responsible management thereafter

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: 148

Finance Articles

What to Do if You've Been Denied a Loan Due to Your Credit Score

Your credit score is a critical number that plays a significant role in your financial life. It represents your creditworthiness, or in simpler terms, how reliable you are in repaying borrowed money. - read more

Loan Hunting with Confidence: How to Check Options Without Credit Damage

Embarking on the journey to secure a loan can feel like navigating a minefield with your credit score as the prize. It's no secret that your credit score is your financial fingerprint, impacting not just your loan prospects but also the terms you're offered. However, the act of loan hunting itself, if not done carefully, can take a toll on this crucial number. - read more

Effective Debt Management Tips for Young Adults

Managing debt effectively is crucial for young adults, especially as they start building their financial independence. Understanding how to manage debt properly can help you avoid financial pitfalls and set you up for a stable future. - read more

Understanding Your Credit File: How to Seek Loans without Negative Impacts

Understanding financial health is paramount when venturing into the realm of loan acquisition. It's the backbone that supports not just your immediate monetary requirements but ensures longevity in your fiscal stability. At the heart of this understanding lies a critical aspect: the credit score. It's a numerical representation of your financial trustworthiness, influenced by past fiscal decisions and behaviors. - read more

How to Use Loan Comparison Tools Effectively - A Guide for the Credit-Conscious

When it comes to securing a loan, the terms you agree to can have a lasting impact on your financial wellness. It's crucial to strike a balance between finding a loan that fits your needs and maintaining a healthy credit score. This delicate equilibrium is where loan comparison tools come into play, serving as navigational aids in the vast sea of credit options. - read more

How Your Credit Score Affects Loan Approval and Interest Rates

Your credit score is a crucial part of your financial health. Essentially, it’s a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, calculated based on your credit history. In Australia, credit scores range from 0 to 1200, with a higher score indicating better creditworthiness. - read more

How to Use Credit Cards Wisely to Enhance Your Credit Score

Your credit score is more than just a number; it's a reflection of your financial health. Essentially, it’s a numerical expression that represents your creditworthiness. Lenders use this score to assess the level of risk involved in lending you money. - read more

Maximize Your Loan Options without a Credit Footprint: Strategies to Know

As we navigate the complexities of today's economy, the significance of credit can scarcely be overstated. Whether we're considering a home mortgage, a new car, or managing our personal finances, our credit health often dictates the terms and accessibility of financial support. A robust credit score can open doors to favorable loan terms and rates, while a poor score can narrow our options and cost us more in the long run. - read more

Budgeting Basics to Keep Your Credit Score Healthy While Seeking a Loan

Understanding the nuances of financial health is a crucial component in the journey of loan acquisition. It is the bedrock on which potential borrowers build their case for credibility and reliability. Among the myriad of factors influencing your fiscal stability, credit scores stand out as a beacon indicating your creditworthiness to lenders. A robust credit score simplifies the path to securing loans, garnering favorable interest rates, and negotiating better terms. - read more

Quick and Easy Tips to Boost Your Loan Approval Odds Without Affecting Credit

Loan approval can often be a crucial milestone in achieving your financial goals. Whether you're looking to buy a home, pay for education, or consolidate debt, securing a loan can provide the financial boost you need to move forward. - read more

Finance News

APRA Issues New Guidance on Commercial Property Lending Practices

27 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has recently provided updated guidance to authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) regarding pre-sales and commercial property lending. This move aims to clarify expectations and support both borrowers and lenders in the commercial property sector. - read more

ASIC Issues Warning to Payday Lenders Over Potential Consumer Protection Breaches

27 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has raised concerns about certain payday lenders potentially breaching consumer protection laws. In a report released on 13 March 2025, ASIC highlighted that some lenders offering small amount credit contracts (SACCs) may be attempting to circumvent regulatory obligations, thereby exposing vulnerable consumers to increased financial risks. - read more

Surge in Private Lending: Opportunities and Risks for Australian Brokers

27 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian financial landscape is witnessing a significant surge in private lending, presenting both opportunities and challenges for brokers. As traditional banks tighten their lending criteria, private lenders are stepping in to fill the gap, offering more flexible funding solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individuals with non-conforming credit profiles. - read more

NAB Penalized for Consumer Data Breaches: Implications for Borrowers

26 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

In June 2025, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) imposed a penalty of A$751,200 (approximately $488,806) on National Australia Bank (NAB) for alleged breaches of the Consumer Data Right (CDR) rules. This marks the highest fine issued for such violations to date. - read more

ASIC Takes Legal Action Against NAB for Financial Hardship Response Delays

26 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

In November 2024, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) initiated civil penalty proceedings against National Australia Bank (NAB) for failing to meet legally mandated deadlines in responding to financial hardship applications. Between 2018 and 2023, NAB and its unit AFSH Nominees allegedly did not respond within the required 21-day period to 345 applications from individuals facing severe personal and financial difficulties. - read more

APRA Retains 3% Serviceability Buffer Amid Economic Uncertainty

26 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

In November 2024, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) announced its decision to maintain a 3% serviceability buffer for home loan lending. This measure requires lenders to ensure new borrowers can meet loan repayments at an interest rate at least 3% above the current rate. The decision comes amid concerns over high household debt, rising credit growth, and a weakening job market. - read more

Rate Money Offers Competitive Rates for Self-Employed Borrowers

25 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

In a bid to support Australia's self-employed community, non-bank lender Rate Money has announced significant reductions in interest rates across its 'Evolve Easy Doc' loan range. Effective June 30, 2025, the new rates start from 6.64% per annum, with the 'Easy Doc One Year' product now available from just 6.09% per annum. Additionally, the company has removed interest-only loading on investment loans, providing further financial relief to borrowers. - read more

Afterpay Users Advised to Close BNPL Accounts to Secure Mortgages

25 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent findings have brought to light a concerning trend affecting users of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services in Australia. A survey conducted by Afterpay revealed that over 10% of its customers were advised to close their BNPL accounts to qualify for a mortgage. Alarmingly, these individuals were subsequently offered credit cards by the same banks or mortgage brokers that recommended the account closures. - read more

Westpac Simplifies Home Loan Applications for Self-Employed Australians

25 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to support Australia's growing self-employed workforce, Westpac has announced a streamlined process for home loan applications. Effective immediately, the bank will accept a one-year income assessment from self-employed applicants, reducing the previous requirement of two years' worth of financial documentation. This change aims to expedite the loan approval process and make homeownership more accessible for entrepreneurs and small business owners. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Need Help Finding a Loan?

Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check!

All finance quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase

Personal Loan:
A personal loan is usually made by a financial institution to an individual person without the need for the provision of asset security. Personal loans can generally be obtained for any worthwhile purpose subject to the lending criteria of the financ