If you have a solid credit score you can often take advantage of 0% APR balance transfers offers to reduce your interest payments for 6 to 12 months. Unfortunatley, due to the new credit card legislation and the economic downturn, most issuers have pulled back many of the promotions that they have offered.

Before you apply, take into consideration that the introductory offer you get still depends on your credit score. For most credit cards you will need a very good credit score to qualify for a better deal. You may apply for a credit card with 0% balance transfer APR but instead only qualify for a 6% intro APR.

Here are things to pay attention to when signing up for a new credit card which offers 0% apr.

• What is the balance transfer transaction fee? Most credit cards will charge you a percentage of the amount up to a certain cap.
• What is the regular interest rate after the introductory period?
• How long does the introductory rate last?
• Does the intro rate apply to balance transfers, purchases, or both?
• What is the annual fee?
• What are the late fees and overlimit fees?
• When you receive your new credit card in the mail, read the credit card terms carefully and make sure you got the deal you applied for. Keep in mind that one late payment could increase your 0% interest rate to a penalty rate of over 20%.

When you transfer a credit card balance, keep your old credit card until you receive a statement showing that your balance is $0. If your goal is to reduce your credit card debt and you no longer need your old credit card, cancel your old credit card to avoid using it.