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What is a balance transfer fee?
Learn more about the one-time fee you might pay when you move your debt to a new credit card.
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Balance transfers can be a useful way to consolidate existing debt without the high interest cost. While you'll save on interest with low balance transfer rates, it doesn't mean that balance transfers are cost-free. As well as the standard card fees, you might also have to pay a one-off balance transfer fee. This guide explains what this fee is and how you can confirm what you'll have to pay when you transfer your balance.
What is a balance transfer fee?
A balance transfer fee is a percentage-based fee charged when you transfer your existing credit card, store card, or personal loan debt onto a new credit card. The balance transfer fee is usually 1-3% of the entire balance transfer amount.
For example, if you are transferring $5,000 onto a new card and are charged a 2.5% balance transfer fee, the entire amount of the debt that will appear on the new card is $5,125 (the $5,000 existing debt and the $125 balance transfer fee). Unlike an annual fee, this fee is only charged once when you first move your balance.
Do I have to pay a balance transfer fee?
Not all balance transfer credit cards charge a balance transfer fee, so it's something worth considering when you're comparing your balance transfer options. If you're wondering if your new card will charge a balance transfer fee, you can check the product disclosure statement (PDS), the card review on finder or contact the card issuer to confirm the fee.
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Balance transfer review and frequently asked questions
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* The credit card offers compared on this page are chosen from a range of credit cards finder.com.au has access to track details from and is not representative of all the products available in the market. Products are displayed in no particular order or ranking. The use of terms 'Best' and 'Top' are not product ratings and are subject to our disclaimer. You should consider seeking independent financial advice and consider your own personal financial circumstances when comparing cards.
Are you aware of any credit cards in the Australian market that currently charge a balance transfer fee? I’ve shopped around and I can’t find any at present…
Hi Ricky
The HSBC Credit Card currently charges a 2% balance transfer fee.
Cheers
Jeremy