0% Purchase Credit Cards

Interest free spending

If you're looking to spread the cost of a purchase, you might be considering a 0% purchase credit card.

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We are a credit broker, not a lender.

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  • capitalone logo
  • msbank logo
  • natwest logo
  • onmo logo
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  • santander logo
  • 118money logo
  • capitalone logo
  • msbank logo
  • natwest logo
  • onmo logo
  • rbs logo
  • santander logo
  • 118money logo
  • capitalone logo
  • msbank logo
  • natwest logo
  • onmo logo
  • rbs logo
  • santander logo

What are 0% purchase credit cards?

0% purchase credit cards work in the same way as an everyday spending credit card with the benefit of an interest-free introductory period.

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0% purchase credit card

How exactly do 0% purchase credit cards work?

1. Read the terms and conditions of the credit card carefully so you understand the promotional offer, the standard purchase interest rate, and any fees you could be charged. Make sure you're happy that this is the right credit card for you before signing your credit agreement.

2. Use your credit card online or in-store to make your purchase.

3. Have peace of mind knowing that you will not be charged interest on your balance during your promotional period.

4. Make at least the minimum repayment on time each month.

5. Pay off the balance of your credit card before the interest-free period ends.

Things you may love about 0% purchase credit cards

  • You can spread the cost of a large purchase by repaying your credit card balance in monthly instalments.
  • You will not be charged interest on your purchases during your promotional period.

Things to bear in mind

  • Any outstanding balance on your account will be charged interest at your standard purchase interest rate once your promotional period comes to an end.
  • Any purchases made after the promotional period ends will be charged interest at the standard purchase interest rate.
  • When comparing your credit card options, it's important to find a promotional offer with a duration that suits you and your individual needs.
  • If, during your promotional period, you do not make at least the minimum repayment on time each month, your 0% offer could be cancelled. You may be charged a late repayment fee, and your credit score could also be affected. Always read the terms and conditions of your credit agreement before signing so you're aware of any potential charges.

Who can apply for a 0% purchase credit card?

Compare Credit Cards is a credit broker, not a lender, and we work with a range of trusted credit card providers. While the application criteria could vary between lenders, in general you must:

  • Be a UK resident with 3 years' UK address history;
  • Have a UK-issued bank account with a valid debit card;
  • Have a regular source of income paid directly into your bank account; and
  • Be over the age of 18.
zero purchase credit card
credit score

Could a 0% purchase credit card affect my credit score? 

Taking out any credit product, such as a credit card or loan, will affect your credit score.

If you stay well within your credit limit, and make at least the minimum repayment on time each month, you could see a positive effect on your score; however, you will need to manage any other credit accounts in the same responsible way. On the other hand, if you exceed your credit limit or fail to make your repayment on time each month, your credit score could decline.

What are the benefits of using Compare Credit Cards?

With so many credit cards out there, where do you begin trying to find the right one for you?

The good news is that you don't have to. At Compare Credit Cards, we do the hard work for you by searching our panel of providers to find the right credit card to suit your needs.

Making numerous applications directly with credit card providers, and undergoing multiple hard credit searches over a short period of time, could have a negative impact on your credit score.

Compare Credit Cards use soft search technology to check your eligibility for a credit card. A soft search is not visible on your credit file to other lenders, and will not affect your credit score.

purchase credit card

How can I check my eligibility for a 0% purchase credit card? 

Our straightforward online form has been designed with you in mind. You can breathe easy knowing there are no lengthy forms littered with overcomplicated financial jargon here.

Fill out our online Eligibility Checker; this should take no longer than five minutes.

In just 60 seconds, we will run a soft search eligibility check, check our panel of providers for potential matches, and narrow down your search.

If we've been successful in finding you one or more credit cards we'll show you your options. We'll also let you know how likely you are to be approved for each card.

Carefully read the information for each credit card, comparing each Annual Percentage Rate (APR), standard purchase interest rate, and any interest-free promotional period on offer.

Found a credit card you like the look of? You can click through to the provider's website and make a full application. The lender will carry out a hard credit check before making a decision.

Does pre-approved mean that I'm guaranteed to be accepted for my chosen credit card?

Pre-approved means that, based on the information provided on your application form, we have been able to match you to one or more credit cards. When we present you with your options, we will let you know how likely you are to be approved for each product.

Should you choose to apply for a credit card, you will be directed to the provider's website. The provider will conduct some further checks, including a hard credit search, before your application can be approved.

best purchase credit card

What are the best 0% purchase credit cards?

When looking for the best 0% purchase credit card for you, you should think carefully about:

  • The duration of any introductory 0% interest offer;
  • The standard purchase APR you will be charged if you haven’t cleared the balance of your account by the time the interest-free period ends; and
  • Any additional fees you could be charged, such as a late payment fee.