 TITLE: How to Avoid Balance Transfer Credit Card Fees CONTENT: How to Choose a Balance Transfer Card\n-------------------------------------\nTo choose the best balance transfer card for your needs, consider the following:\n*   How long does the 0% introductory APR last? Common introductory periods are 12, 15 or 18 months; you may even be able to find cards that offer 21 months. A longer introductory period gives you more time to pay off your balance; if you're transferring a large balance, this gives you greater flexibility.\n*   Does the introductory 0% APR also apply to purchases? If so, for how long?\n*   Once the introductory period ends, what is the APR on purchases? (Know the APR of your current credit cards so you can compare.) If you miss a payment, will your APR increase?\n*   What fees are involved? In addition to balance transfer fees, some cards charge an annual fee or impose fees for late payments or foreign transactions. Weigh these fees against the savings the 0% APR offers.\n*   Does the card offer any rewards? Cash back, travel rewards and purchase protection are among the perks some credit cards offer. But because your primary focus when choosing a balance transfer card is consolidating debt, benefits shouldn't be the deciding factor. If you do plan to use the card after you've paid off your transferred balance, however, it doesn't hurt to take perks into account as well. END