10 Best 0% APR and Low-Interest Credit Cards of October 2026

Frequently asked questions

• How can you get 0% APR on an existing credit card?

  Some card issuers will offer you a special 0% APR on an existing credit card. This is typically only offered to cardholders with an extensive history with the issuer and who are in good (or great) financial standing. 

• How can you extend 0% APR on a credit card?

  If you've been regularly paying off your debt and aren’t carrying a card balance, it’s possible that your issuer will extend your promotional low-APR period. This is usually only done if you regularly pay off your balance anyway, though, so you’ll have to demonstrate financial responsibility to earn this.

• What are the best credit cards with zero interest?

  The best credit cards with zero interest typically offer valuable reward rates along with their low APR. They also come with perks, in some cases, that can further save you money for travel and in your daily spending.

• Why do credit card companies offer 0% APR?

  Zero-percent APR is a promotional tool used by credit card companies to entice customers to apply. Promos for 0% APR typically last 12 or 15 months, after which the card usually reverts to a standard APR. Card companies also make money when you swipe your card, so 0% APR purchases are still profitable for them. 

• Should I pay off a zero-interest credit card?

  At TPG, we always recommend paying off your monthly card balance in full whenever possible. Delaying payment isn’t ideal, even with a zero-interest card, as it can lead to poor spending habits and damage your financial health in the long run.

• Who shouldn't get a 0% APR credit card?

  A primary consideration with a 0% APR credit card should be ensuring you spend within your means, even if you don't have to pay interest on your purchases for the card's promotional period.

  It's advisable to utilize a zero interest card as a tool to give yourself some extra time to pay off a large purchase. If you lack financial discipline, a 0% APR card could be challenging to manage.

  Related: Pros and cons of zero percent APR credit cards

• How will my credit score be affected by having a 0% APR card?

  Your credit score won't be affected by simply holding a 0% APR card, but the way you manage the balance on your card in addition to your ability to make timely payments can determine if your credit is affected. Your score could take some dings by carrying a balance month to month, even during the zero interest introductory term. However, a more prominent issue could arise if you continue to carry a large balance after the intro period concludes.

  If you can't immediately pay your balance off month to month on a 0% APR card, working to lower it with each statement can help mitigate the effect on your credit. You can also request a lower interest rate from your issuer but there is no guarantee that it will be approved.

• Should I get a low interest card or a cash back card?

  This decision depends on what you're looking to get from a card, as these two types of cards serve different purposes.

  If you're expecting to carry a balance or make a large purchase that you'll need time to pay off, a low interest card could be a solid option so you limit the amount of interest you accrue.

  Meanwhile, a cash back card is a rewards card that puts a certain percentage of money back in your pocket — usually for purchases in categories like grocery stores, gas stations and dining out, for example.

  Ultimately, there isn't a right or a wrong answer here. It comes down to what you need a credit card to do for you.

• What's the difference between APR and APY?

  APR is short for annual percentage rate, which is defined as the interest rate you're charged on your credit card balance over the course of a year. APY, or annual percentage yield, is money you earn in a savings account or on an investment over the course of a year.

• Do zero interest credit cards have annual fees?

  While many zero interest cards (including a majority of those on this list) do not charge an annual fee, some of them do.

• Can I close my credit card when the 0% APR term ends?

  You can technically close a credit card whenever you decide you're ready to do so. However, it's important to weigh how closing a credit card will affect your credit score, as it could adjust both your credit utilization and your credit history length.

  You should also be certain that your final payment on that card has been processed before you cancel it.