How To Do a Balance Transfer With Chase

Chase offers a convenient solution to managing debt: a balance transfer. This mechanism lets you shift your debt from a high-interest credit card to a Chase credit card with a more favorable rate. While Chase generally charges a balance transfer fee — typically 3% to 5% of the transferred amount — the potential savings from the lower interest rate can outweigh this cost.

When conducting a balance transfer, it's important to remember that after the 0% introductory APR period, the APR will increase to the standard rate. The regular APR will depend on your creditworthiness and the card terms. So, if you're considering a balance transfer to a Chase card, make sure you have a plan to pay off as much of your debt as possible during the introductory period to maximize your savings.

If you're considering a balance transfer to a Chase credit card, it's important to understand the eligibility criteria.

First, you need to have a Chase credit card. You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Social Security number to apply. You also must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, or have a valid long-term visa.

Chase, just like any other card issuer, will check the following:

• Credit score: Credit score plays a significant role in your eligibility. Chase prefers applicants with good to excellent credit scores — typically 670 or above. However, the exact credit score required can vary depending on the specific card you're applying for.
• Current debts: Existing debts are another critical factor. If you have a high debt-to-income ratio, it could decrease your chances of approval. This is because Chase, like most lenders, views a high ratio as an indicator of financial risk. Chase also looks at your payment history. If you have a history of late or missed payments, it may affect your eligibility.
• Income: Chase will also check your income and current employment. Its findings will determine the credit limit it will offer.

Register your balance transfer card or create an online account through the Chase mobile app. From there, you can check your eligibility for a balance transfer. Select the credit card to which you want to transfer the balance and check for any offers. Similarly, you can call Chase's customer service line or visit one of their branches to apply.

The approval process typically includes verifying your information and confirming the details of the debt you're transferring. If everything checks out, Chase will approve your transfer.

Alternatively, you can initiate a balance transfer over the phone or at a branch. While the process may differ, the requirements remain the same.

The timeline for a balance transfer can vary, but typically, it can take one to three weeks. Chase will notify you when the transfer is complete, and you can check the status at any time through your online account.

During this period, ensure that you continue making payments on your old account until you receive a confirmation that Chase has completed the transfer. Waiting for this notice will prevent any possible late fees or penalties that may impact your credit score.

Carrying out a balance transfer with Chase is a powerful strategy to manage high-interest credit card debt. Here are a few reminders to note before you initiate the transfer:

• The total amount you can request to be transferred online or over the phone cannot exceed $15,000 during any 30-day period.
• While good or excellent credit might qualify you for a balance transfer card from Chase, it does not guarantee approval of your balance transfer request.
• You cannot transfer balances from one Chase account to another.
• Balance transfers do not earn cash back, rewards or rebates.

Understanding balance transfers with Chase involves more than just moving money from one card to another. It's a strategic tool that can help manage debt and carve a path to financial stability when used responsibly. As you navigate this process, remember the importance of eligibility, thoughtful execution and adherence to your repayment plan.

While we've highlighted the key points about Chase balance transfers, we understand you may still have additional or specific questions. We've prepared a list of the most commonly asked questions about Chase balance transfers just below: