How to Use the Santander Everyday Credit Card for Maximum Savings

Now that you've seen the potential of the Santander Everyday No Balance Transfer Fee Card, it's time to dive deeper.

This card isn’t just about moving your debt — it’s a strategic tool for financial reset. Used correctly, it can save you hundreds (or even thousands) of pounds in interest and fees.

But here’s the secret: most people don’t use these types of cards efficiently. They transfer debt and then keep spending, or they don’t pay attention to timing. Let’s change that.

Step-by-Step Guide: Getting the Most From This Card

1. Transfer Balances Within the First 90 Days
   • That’s your window to benefit from the 0% APR for 18 months.
   • Transfers after 90 days are charged the standard APR, which is currently 21.9% (variable).
   • Ideal cards to transfer from: Barclaycard, Aqua, Vanquis, or store cards like Argos Card.
2. Stop Using the Old Card
   • Once you transfer the balance, avoid using the old card to prevent new interest charges.
   • Instead, store it away or request a credit limit reduction.
3. Avoid New Spending
   • While the Santander Everyday Card allows new purchases, these aren’t interest-free.
   • You’ll start paying interest on purchases immediately, unless you pay the balance in full.
   • This is not a card for spending — it’s a debt-clearing tool.
4. Set Monthly Payments Strategically
   • Divide your total transferred balance by 18 months and set that as your monthly goal.
   • Example: £4,500 / 18 = £250 per month. Automate that payment through your bank.
5. Track When the 0% Period Ends
   • Mark the end date in Google Calendar with reminders 30, 15, and 5 days before it expires.
   • On day 16 of month 18, your APR jumps to 21.9%, so plan ahead.

Hidden Hacks That Boost Value

• Use a 0% Purchase Card in Tandem:
• While Santander’s card isn’t great for purchases, consider pairing it with something like the American Express Platinum Cashback Everyday to earn rewards on new spending while you tackle your debt.
• Request a Limit Increase After 6 Months:
• Santander may offer limit increases if you’ve shown consistent payment behavior. Higher limits can improve your credit utilization ratio, boosting your credit score.
• Use the Card to Refinance Small Personal Loans:
• If you have personal loans under £3,000 with high APRs (ex: payday lenders), a transfer could save you a ton in interest, especially without a fee.

Frequently Asked Questions (That Most Sites Ignore)

1. Can I transfer debt from another Santander card?

No. Santander does not allow internal balance transfers between their own cards.

2. What happens if I miss a payment during the 0% period?

You risk losing the 0% promo. One late payment can void your intro rate and trigger the full 21.9% APR — even retroactively.

3. Is there a minimum transfer amount?

Yes, it’s typically £100, but this can vary slightly depending on your credit limit and offer terms.

4. Does this card help improve my credit score?

Yes — if used responsibly. Making full, on-time payments and reducing your balance improves your score over time.

5. Can I use this card abroad?

Yes, but note: Santander charges a non-sterling transaction fee of 2.95%. It’s best not to use this card internationally.

6. Will Santander do a hard credit check?

Yes. Applying will result in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which may affect your score temporarily.

7. Can I cancel the card after the 0% period ends?

Yes, but if it’s your oldest card, cancelling could negatively affect your credit history length.

8. What if I want a second balance transfer card after this?

Wait at least 3 months after this promo ends, and then look at cards like TSB Platinum or Virgin Atlantic Balance Transfer for your next move.

Complementary Products to Consider

• Experian or Credit Karma UK: Monitor your score and simulate payoff impacts before and after the 0% period.
• Monzo or Starling Bank: Use these apps for budgeting alongside your debt repayment journey.
• Amex Cashback Cards: Earn while spending — but only if you pay them in full monthly.

Who Should Skip This Card?

• Impulse Shoppers: If you know you’ll be tempted to spend more, this card can backfire.
• Travelers: That foreign transaction fee kills the benefits abroad.
• Reward Hunters: There’s no cashback or points program here. If rewards are important, consider alternatives.

Final Verdict: A Quiet Powerhouse for Debt Control

The Santander Everyday No Balance Transfer Fee Credit Card may not make headlines like flashy rewards cards, but in terms of pure debt elimination, it’s one of the best options on the UK market today.

Its zero-cost entry, long intro APR, and Mastercard reliability make it ideal for strategic borrowers ready to take control of their finances.

For best results: combine this with financial planning tools, avoid using it for purchases, and follow a structured repayment strategy.