How to Do a Balance Transfer With Wells Fargo

Updated: November 6, 2024

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Transferring a balance with Wells Fargo is simple, whether you do it online or by phone. Wells Fargo also provides Superchecks with your card, a special check you can use to clear your balance. Typically, the entire process takes up to 14 days.

Several Wells Fargo cards offer the balance transfer option. They usually come with an introductory 0% APR period on balance transfers, which ranges from 12 to 21 months, depending on the specific card. This interest-free period presents an excellent opportunity for individuals to manage their existing debt or seek relief from high-interest rates.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
  • Balance transfers with Wells Fargo can take up to 14 days to post to your account, so plan accordingly to avoid any gaps in payment due dates.
  • Wells Fargo balance transfer cards come with Superchecks, a convenience check that you can use to pay off your old credit card directly.
  • The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card comes with a 21-month 0% intro APR on balance transfers, one of the longest no-interest timeframes available.

How to Do a Wells Fargo Balance Transfer

Balance transfers with Wells Fargo are easy. Whether you already have a card or are applying for one, you’ll follow the same process online. If you prefer, you can also transfer your balance using Wells Fargo Superchecks.

How to Transfer Balances to a New Wells Fargo Card

  1. Compare Wells Fargo cards to find one that aligns with your financial goals.
  2. Apply for your chosen card. Upon approval, initiate a balance transfer by following the steps below.

How to Transfer Balances to an Existing Wells Fargo Card

  1. Sign on to the Wells Fargo Credit Card Service Center.
  2. Select “Request Balance Transfer” from the menu.
  3. Enter the details of the credit card from which you're transferring the balance.

How to Transfer Balances Using a Wells Fargo Supercheck

  1. Your new Wells Fargo credit card will include a Supercheck. Fill it out with all the relevant details for the card you're paying off, ensuring the amount is within your credit limit.
  2. Drop off or mail the check to the issuer’s office. Keep in mind that it may take up to five business days for funds to be available on the other party’s account.
MORE>> What is a balance transfer check?

What Happens After Submitting a Balance Transfer Request

Wells Fargo typically completes balance transfers within 14 days. You'll see the balance on your Wells Fargo account once the transfer is complete. Continue making payments on your old card until the transfer is confirmed to avoid late fees and penalties.

How to Check the Status of a Wells Fargo Balance Transfer

Log in to your Wells Fargo account to monitor the progress of your balance transfer. For updates, you can also call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-642-4720. Staying informed helps you manage payments on your old account and avoid unnecessary charges.

MONEYGEEK EXPERT TIP

Although your minimum monthly payment may be lower, the best strategy is to pay as much as you can each month to eliminate your balance before the 0% APR rate expires. Some customers divide their total balance by the number of months in the 0% APR offer and pay that amount each month to achieve a zero balance. — Lee Huffman, credit card expert at BaldThoughts.com

Considerations for Wells Fargo Balance Transfers

Before you proceed with your Wells Fargo balance transfer, it's helpful to understand the applicable terms and conditions. These details will help you smoothly navigate the process and avoid unexpected issues.

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    Processing Time

    The balance transfer may take up to 14 days to be posted to your account.

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    Balance Transfer Amount

    The amount you can transfer cannot exceed your available credit limit.

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    Introductory Period

    To qualify for Wells Fargo's introductory APR, you must request a balance transfer within 120 days of opening your account.

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    Balance Transfer Fee

    Wells Fargo charges a 5% fee for each balance transfer, with a minimum of $5. Consider this when calculating whether a balance transfer can help save you money.

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    Regular APR

    After the intro period, the APR will be between 18.24% and 29.99%, variable based on your creditworthiness.

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    Transfer Restrictions

    You cannot transfer balances between Wells Fargo cards.

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    Eligibility

    Wells Fargo balance transfer cards typically require a good to excellent credit score. If you've opened a Wells Fargo credit card within the past six months, you won't be allowed to apply for a new one.

Best Wells Fargo Balance Transfer Credit Cards

When searching for a balance transfer card, it's a good idea to consider offers with a long 0% intro APR period, low balance transfer fees and no annual fees. These features can significantly reduce the cost of transferring a balance and provide ample time to pay down debt without accruing interest.

If a long no-interest period is what you're after, the Wells Fargo Reflect card is a standout choice. It provides a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months, one of the longest in the market.

Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
Credit Card logo for Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
MoneyGeek Rating
5/ of 5
On Issuer's Site

Balance Transfer Offer
0% for 21 months on balance transfers
APR
17.49%, 23.99%, or 29.24% variable
Balance Transfer Fee
5% for each balance transfer, minimum $5
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)

If you want a more versatile balance transfer card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® card is an alternative. Aside from its 15-month 0% intro APR on balance transfers, it comes with unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. This card is an excellent choice if you're less concerned about low monthly payments and more interested in earning significant cash back to help pay off your balance.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Credit Card logo for Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
MoneyGeek Rating
3.8/ of 5
On Issuer's Site

Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
APR
19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)

FAQ About Balance Transfers With Wells Fargo

We answer some common questions about balance transfers with Wells Fargo to help you know more about the topic and clear up any remaining concerns you might have.

How long does it take to process a Wells Fargo balance transfer?
Is there a limit to how much you can transfer with Wells Fargo?
Does Wells Fargo offer balance transfer checks?
Can a balance transfer with Wells Fargo hurt your credit score?

If You’re Looking for More

Transferring your balance to Wells Fargo could be a smart step toward wiping out your credit card debt. However, before you decide to transfer your balance to Wells Fargo, keep in mind the possible effects on your credit score and the fees involved.

Your financial circumstances are unique, and the suitability of a balance transfer for you depends on your ability to pay off the balance within the promo period.

About Doug Milnes, CFA


Doug Milnes, CFA headshot

Doug Milnes is a CFA charter holder with over 10 years of experience in corporate finance and the Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. Formerly, he performed valuations for Duff and Phelps and financial planning and analysis for various companies. His analysis has been cited by U.S. News and World Report, The Hill, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times and many other outlets.

Milnes holds a master’s degree in data science from Northwestern University. He geeks out on helping people feel on top of their credit card use, from managing debt to optimizing rewards.


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*Rates, fees or bonuses may vary or include specific stipulations. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. We recommend visiting the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information available.
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