If you are a Credit Card owner, you must have wondered: Can I pay a Credit Card bill with another Credit Card? The simple answer to this question is you cannot transfer your Credit Card bill from one card to another. This is because the fees of such transactions are too high for Credit Card companies. Moreover, such transfers may eventually keep on getting transferred from one card to another, leading to delayed payments.
But there are several indirect ways to pay for your Credit Card to Credit Card payment. The two most popular ways are Balance Transfers and Cash Advances. But do you know what these options are? How do they work? What are the pros and cons of these methods? If not, then read this article till the end.
What is a balance transfer?
A balance transfer is one of the most common ways to pay a Credit Card bill with another Credit Card. This method moves an existing debt from one Credit Card or loan account to another. This is often done for lower interest rates or promotional offers.
What is the process to make a payment for a credit card via balance transfer?
Paying for a Credit Card through a balance transfer can help you manage your debt more effectively. Here's how you can do it:
Step 1: Request a balance transfer
You must contact the Credit Card issuer where you want to transfer your debt. You must verify your eligibility and understand any transfer restrictions. You can reach out to the Credit Card company in the following ways.
- Online Request: Log into your account on the issuer's website and submit a balance transfer request. You must provide details about the debt you wish to move, including the issuer's name, the amount, and account information.
- Phone Request: Call your issuer's customer service to initiate a balance transfer. Have all the necessary information ready.
Step 2: Wait for the transfer to go through
You must understand that the balance transfer may take up to two weeks or longer for the issuer to approve and complete the balance transfer request. Moreover, you should keep monthly payments on the old debt until the transfer is finalized.
You must regularly check your old account as these transfers take place directly. You may not receive a notification when the balance transfer goes through. Thus, you must check your account to see if a payment is posted, which will be the sum of the outstanding amount and a processing fee, usually 3% to 5% of the transferred amount.
Step 3: Pay off your balance
You must adhere to the terms and conditions of the new Credit Card once your balance is transferred. If the new card offers an introductory 0% APR on balance transfers, take advantage of interest-free payments during the promotional period.
Must Read: Credit Card Statement & Due Date Payment Cycle
Advantages and disadvantages of balance transfer
A balance transfer has advantages and disadvantages. They are as follows:
Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Helps you save money on interest. Some cards even come with a 0% APR introductory period. | They incur a fee ranging from 3 to 5% of the transferred balance. |
| You can consolidate balances from multiple cards to one card. | It may offer an introductory 0% APR on a balance transfer, but after that, higher rates could inflate interest if the balance isn't cleared. |
| It helps in faster clearance of debt as interest is lower. | It can impact your credit score. |
What is a cash advance?
A cash advance is another way to pay a Credit Card bill with another Credit Card. This method involves using your Credit Card to withdraw money from an ATM, similar to how you might use a debit card and use the money to repay the bill for another card.
What is the process for making a payment for a credit card via cash advance?
Using a cash advance to make a payment on your Credit Card is possible, but it's essential to approach it carefully and with the right steps. Here are the simple steps:
Understand cash advances
Cash advances typically entail substantial fees and high interest rates. It is advisable to explore alternative options beforehand.
Check limits & fees
Check your Credit Card's cash advance limit and associated fees before proceeding.
Find a suitable atm
Locate an ATM that accepts your Credit Card. Ensure you have your Credit Card PIN handy.
Insert your card and choose cash advance
Insert your Credit Card into the ATM and follow the instructions on the screen. Opt for the cash advance alternative and input the desired withdrawal amount.
Confirm Terms and Fees
The ATM will display the amount you are withdrawing and any associated fees. Take a minute to review these details.
Complete the Transaction
Confirm the transaction. The ATM will dispense the cash, and the amount withdrawn will be added to your Credit Card balance.
Make the Payment
Now, you can add the cash to your account and use it to repay your bill for another Credit Card. You can make the payment with the help of the net banking option, UPI, through a mobile banking application.
Must Read: What Is A Credit Card Billing Cycle?
Advantages and Disadvantages of Cash Advance
Cash advances have advantages and disadvantages. They are as follows:
Advantages | Disadvantages |
| You do not have to provide any collateral to secure a cash advance. | When you take a cash advance, the interest rate is usually higher than the rate for regular Credit Card purchases. |
| Unlike some loan applications that involve a hard credit check, which can temporarily lower your credit score, a cash advance often involves a soft credit check. | Cash advances often come with additional fees, such as the upfront charges for the cash advance itself or ATM fee. |
| Applying for certain loans can involve a lengthy approval process, which might not be suitable when you need funds quickly. | Cash withdrawn through a cash advance isn't always protected. It does not come with the same fraud protection in case it is stolen. |
Conclusion
Now you understand how to pay a Credit Card bill from another Credit Card, it is important to understand though these methods seem convenient in certain situations, it's essential to approach these methods carefully.
Financial decisions should be made with a clear understanding of their implications on your overall financial well-being. Additionally, if you use any methods, you must prioritize timely payments to ensure a quick closer to the debt and have better peace of mind.
Moreover, if you are looking for a Credit Card, consider Kotak811. The card comes bundled with various perks, such as a reward system and an annual fee waiver if you spend more than INR 50,000 annually. You can apply for a free Credit Card online.
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This Article is for information purposes only. The views expressed in this Article do not necessarily constitute the views of Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. (“Bank”) or its employees. Bank makes no warranty of any kind with respect to the completeness or accuracy of the material and articles contained in this Newsletter. The information contained in this Article is sourced from empanelled external experts for the benefit of the customers and it does not constitute legal advice from Kotak. Kotak, its directors, employees, and contributors shall not be responsible or liable for any damage or loss resulting from or arising due to reliance on or use of any information contained herein.
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