Credit card debt remains a slow-motion disaster for millions of Americans. As of the third quarter of 2021, Americans held $800 billion in credit card debt, with an estimated 3.2% of that pile flowing into major delinquency, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. And, given the credit card industry’s sky-high interest rates, once you fall behind on payments, it can be difficult to catch up.
If you feel like your efforts to pay down your credit card debt aren’t working, debt consolidation can combine all of your credit card balances into one monthly payment, ideally with a lower interest rate. There are a number of consolidation strategies worth exploring and we’ll run you through each to help you identify which is best for you.
1. Balance transfer card
Best for those with high credit scores who can repay their debt within 1-2 years
A balance transfer credit card consolidates your existing credit card debt onto one card with one main benefit — a low introductory interest rate. Most will offer a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for between 12 – 24 months, allowing you a longer timeline to pay down your debt without worrying about interest. Balance transfer cards often charge a fee for each balanced transferred — typically between 3% to 5% — which can really add up when transferring large balances.
Pros
Lock in 0% or low introductory APR for a year or more
Some cards offer long introductory periods, up to 24 months
Cons
Most cards with low or no intro APR charge balance transfer fees between 3% to 5%
Can lead to more debt at a higher APR if the balance is not paid off during the promotional period
Typically requires great or excellent credit to qualify for 0% APR
2. Debt consolidation loan
Best for anyone with high debt balances
A debt consolidation loan is an unsecured personal loan that offers a fixed interest rate lower than most credit card APRs and repayment terms spread out over several years. This type of loan may be a better option for those who can’t qualify for a balance transfer credit card with a 0% introductory APR. You can even prequalify for a debt consolidation loan without affecting your credit score, so you can decide if this debt consolidation method is right for you.
Credit unions, banks, and online lenders usually offer debt consolidation loans — credit union debt consolidation loans typically have better interest rates and more flexible loan terms than other lenders. Shopping around for debt consolidation loans can help you find the right terms for your personal debt situation.