Learn more about the one-time fee you might pay when you move your debt to a new credit card.
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. Here we explain what this fee is and how you can confirm what you'll have to pay when you transfer your balance.
What is the balance transfer fee?
A balance transfer fee is charged when transferring your existing credit card, store card, or personal loan debt onto a new credit card. It 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 exisiting 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.
Comparison of credit cards without a balance transfer fee
Balance transfer review and frequently asked questions
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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