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What is a 0% purchase card?

If you’re planning a major purchase, a 0% purchase credit card is the cheapest way to borrow. These cards offer an interest-free period during which you can spread the cost of larger purchases.

Providing you can pay the entire balance back before the interest-free period ends, a 0% purchase card can be an unrivalled addition to your wallet.

Aside from taking advantage of the interest rate offers available, 0% purchase cards offer free consumer protection: Under Section 75, the credit card company is jointly liable with the supplier for any failed goods and services between £100 and £30,000 – making a 0% purchase card a useful tool when online shopping.

Is a 0% purchase card right for me?

For larger purchases, such as annual season tickets, 0% purchase cards make an ideal choice. However, existing debts or uncleared balances can quickly wipe out the benefits of these cards. Read this to find out if a 0% purchase card is right for you:

• Can you afford to clear the debt quickly? If you know you can repay for larger purchases within the card's interest free period, a 0% purchase card is ideal for you.

• Do you have a good credit score? Each lender has their own criteria, but if you are starting to build up your credit history you could struggle to get a 0% purchase card. Our credit comparison tool will find out if there are any deals you may be accepted for, without harming your credit rating.

• Do you have existing credit card debts? If you’re currently paying interest on an existing card, it's most likely that your best option is to transfer your debt to a 0% balance transfer card. Check out our best balance transfer cards here.

Golden rules for 0% purchase cards

• Check before you transfer a balance: If you transfer an existing credit card balance to a 0% purchase card, you may find yourself being charged interest. Check your deal carefully to see if the 0% is for balance transfers as well as purchases. It pays to read the full terms and conditions.

• Ensure your borrowing stays free: If you miss a payment, or are late making a payment, you may incur a financial penalty. Combat this by setting up a direct debit to cover at least the minimum repayment each month.

• Understand your minimum payments: The amount you repay each month on a 0% purchase card is not decided according to your interest rate. Instead, you have a lot more control over your payments. You can opt to either pay the minimum or you can ask to repay a set amount each month. If there is a chance that the minimum payment will be higher than your current credit card, make sure you can afford it.

• Never outstay your welcome: Be aware that the 0% interest on your card is only for a limited time. It’s worth making a note of this date in your phone or diary. When it runs out, any remaining balance will start incurring interest at a usually uncompetitive rate. Clearing your balance before the 0% period runs out is highly recommended.

In the event that you can’t clear your balance in time, switch the debt to a new balance transfer card. Just ensure you allow enough time for the application to be processed. Start shopping around for a new card at least a month before your 0% interest offer runs out – our free credit card comparison tool can help.