When you use one credit card to pay off another you are doing what is known as a

balance transfer. Many consumers use the balance transfer as a way to keep from becoming delinquent on their credit card payments. Theoretically, you can keep transferring balances between credit cards indefinitely as long as you have a credit card that allows the transfer.

Different credit card issuers have different terms regarding a balance transfer. The most important of these terms are the interest rate to which the balance transfer is subject, the total amount that can be transferred, and any fees associated with the transfer.

When you are making a decision about transferring a balance to a credit card these are the primary factors that you should consider. Each of these factors has an effect on the amount you will end up paying for transferring the balance.

The ideal credit card for transferring balance is one that has a zero percent APR, a high limit allowed for the balance transfer, and no fee associated with the transfer. With these conditions in place, you are able to transfer a credit card balance for free.

If you are looking for a way to pay down some of your credit card debt, using a free balance transfer is the best way to do so. By transferring your credit card balances to a credit card that does not have associated interest rate or fees, you can pay off balances easier.

When you do a balance transfer, you should close out the old credit card account immediately. Doing this will curb your spending, ensuring that you do not become deeper in debt.

Another rule of thumb to follow when you are working with balance transfers is not to use the new card to make any purchases. Once you have transferred the balance to the credit card, you should put it away. Don't use the card until you have completely repaid the amount of the balance transfer. If you use the card to make purchases, you have nullified the benefits of transferring the balance to a new credit card.

If you use a zero percent APR credit card for the balance transfer, you must make sure you are aware of the terms and conditions of the credit card. In many cases, you lose out on the advantage of not having an interest rate if you make a single late payment.

You should be aware that transferring balances might not necessarily improve your credit rating or standing with the credit reporting agencies. Since credit bureaus look at your total balances and available credit, juggling debts does not improve your credit score. In fact, if you have too many credit cards open at one time, your credit score could be negatively impacted.

There are pros and cons to using balance transfers with credit cards. Using them responsibly can help a great deal. Abusing the privilege might put you in a worse situation than you began with.