A no-frills credit card, the USAA® Rate Advantage Visa Platinum® Card does not earn rewards but offers a low starting interest rate instead. The most creditworthy card applicants can qualify for a 12.15% annual percentage rate, and all cardholders get a 15-month 0% introductory APR on balance transfers posted within the first 90 days of opening the account. After that, the credit card applies the same APR to purchases, balance transfers and cash advances. There is no annual fee for the USAA® Rate Advantage Visa Platinum® Card.
- Issuer NameUSAA
- Credit NeededGood/Excellent
- Annual Fee$0
- Regular APR11.65% to 28.65%
- Balance Transfer Fee5%
- Cash Advance Fee3% of the amount of each cash advance
- Aren’t looking for any rewards
- Occasionally revolve a balance and want a low APR
- Would like a no-annual-fee card with travel benefits and no foreign transaction fee
If you’re a balance revolver who wants to get this card primarily for its lower APR, make sure you have strong enough credit to be offered the lower end of the rate range. Less creditworthy applicants might be offered an APR as high as 29.15%. Beyond that, the card is also good for transferring a balance, thanks to its 15-month 0% introductory APR on balance transfers posted within the first 90 days of opening the account.
Editor’s Take
With no bells and whistles to offer beyond interest savings, this card’s main draw is its low APR and its balance transfer offer. Still, you’ll need to have good credit to qualify for the low APR, and the 5% balance transfer fee is higher than the 3% fee offered by some other cards. It could be a good option if you’re navigating ways to manage your debt and already have an affiliation with USAA. Otherwise, you can find more value from other credit cards that offer rewards, cash back or welcome bonuses.
Dawn PapandreaContributor
The USAA® Rate Advantage Visa Platinum® Card does not have a welcome offer.
The USAA® Rate Advantage Visa Platinum® Card doesn’t earn rewards. To maximize this card, use it as a tool as you learn how to keep your credit card balances in check. If you overspend and have to carry a balance, at least your APR will be lower than most cards. Once you make paying your bill in full a regular habit, it’s probably best to find a better card.
The information for the BankAmericard® Credit Card has been collected independently by U.S. News and the card is not currently available on the site. The information has not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer and it is accurate as of the date posted.
U.S. News rates credit cards by analyzing factors including fees, interest rates and benefits, each weighed against their importance to determine an overall score for each credit card. Consumers can rely on these ratings to provide objective, accurate assessments of credit card choices.
Best in 0% Introductory APR Credit Cards
The information for the BankAmericard® Credit Card has been collected independently by U.S. News and the card is not currently available on the site. The information has not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer and it is accurate as of the date posted.
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