0% APR Credit Cards with Rewards: Do They Exist?

In today’s fast-paced financial landscape, consumers are constantly searching for ways to maximize their spending power while minimizing costs. One of the most sought-after financial products is a 0% APR credit card with rewards—a seemingly mythical combination that promises no interest charges and cashback, points, or travel perks. But do these unicorns of the credit card world actually exist? And if so, how can you find one that fits your needs?

The Allure of 0% APR and Rewards

Credit cards with 0% introductory APR are a lifeline for those looking to finance large purchases, consolidate debt, or simply avoid interest for a set period. Meanwhile, rewards credit cards offer enticing benefits like cashback, airline miles, or hotel stays. Combining these two features sounds like a dream come true—but the reality is more nuanced.

Why 0% APR Cards Are Popular

• Debt consolidation: Transferring high-interest balances to a 0% APR card can save hundreds (or thousands) in interest.
• Big purchases: Financing a new appliance, medical expense, or home improvement project interest-free.
• Emergency buffer: A temporary financial safety net without the burden of compounding interest.

Why Rewards Cards Are Valuable

• Cashback: Earning 1-5% back on everyday spending.
• Travel perks: Free flights, hotel upgrades, and airport lounge access.
• Sign-up bonuses: One-time rewards for meeting spending thresholds.

Do 0% APR Rewards Cards Really Exist?

The short answer: Yes, but they’re rare and come with trade-offs.

Most credit cards fall into one of three categories:

1. 0% APR cards with no rewards (common for balance transfers).
2. Rewards cards with high APRs (premium travel cards often have 20%+ rates).
3. Hybrid cards that offer both 0% APR and rewards—but usually with limitations.

The Best 0% APR Rewards Cards Available Today

While options are limited, a few standout cards offer the best of both worlds:

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

• 0% APR: 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
• Rewards: 1.5% cashback on all purchases, plus 3% on dining and drugstores.
• Caveat: After the intro period, the APR jumps to a variable rate (currently ~20%).

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

• 0% APR: 15 months on purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
• Rewards: Unlimited 2% cashback on all purchases.
• Caveat: Balance transfers have a 3% fee.

Citi® Double Cash Card

• 0% APR: 18 months on balance transfers (but not purchases).
• Rewards: 2% cashback (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay).
• Caveat: No 0% APR on new purchases.

The Catch: Why These Cards Are Hard to Find

Banks make money from interest charges and fees. Offering 0% APR and rewards cuts into their profits, so they limit these deals in key ways:

1. Short Introductory Periods

Most 0% APR offers last 12-18 months, after which the rate spikes. If you carry a balance, the rewards may not offset the high interest.

2. Lower Reward Rates

Cards with 0% APR often have modest rewards (1-2% cashback) compared to premium cards (3-5%).

3. Balance Transfer Fees

Many 0% APR cards charge 3-5% fees on transferred balances, eating into savings.

4. Strict Approval Requirements

These cards typically require good to excellent credit (670+ FICO). If your score is lower, you may only qualify for high-APR or no-rewards cards.

How to Maximize a 0% APR Rewards Card

If you land one of these rare cards, here’s how to make the most of it:

Strategy 1: Pay Off the Balance Before the APR Expires

• Divide your balance by the 0% APR period (e.g., $3,000 over 15 months = $200/month).
• Avoid the interest trap—once the promo ends, any remaining balance accrues interest at the standard rate.

Strategy 2: Use It for Planned Big Purchases

• Buying a mattress? Renovating your home? Put it on the card, earn rewards, and pay it off interest-free.

Strategy 3: Avoid Balance Transfer Pitfalls

• Check for transfer fees (3% of $5,000 = $150).
• Some cards exclude balance transfers from rewards.

Alternatives If You Can’t Find a 0% APR Rewards Card

If your credit score or financial situation doesn’t qualify you for a hybrid card, consider these options:

Option 1: Prioritize 0% APR First, Rewards Later

• Get a 0% APR card to pay down debt, then switch to a rewards card once the balance is cleared.

Option 2: Use a Low-Interest Card with Modest Rewards

• Some credit unions offer low fixed-rate cards with 1% cashback.

Option 3: Leverage Sign-Up Bonuses

• Even if a card has no 0% APR, a $200+ sign-up bonus can offset interest costs if managed wisely.

The Future of 0% APR Rewards Cards

As competition heats up among issuers, we may see more hybrid cards emerge—but with stricter terms. The rise of buy now, pay later (BNPL) services also pressures banks to offer better deals.

For now, the key takeaway is: Yes, 0% APR rewards cards exist, but they require careful strategy to use effectively. Whether you’re escaping debt, funding a project, or just optimizing your spending, the right card can be a powerful tool—if you play by the rules.