Can You Pay a Credit Card With a Credit Card?

Paying a credit card bill directly with another card isn’t possible. You can use a balance transfer, though.

credit card
Updated November 29, 2024
Here at MoneyFor, our goal is to help you make informed financial decisions. We are committed to accuracy and impartiality in all our content. It’s important to note that articles may reference products from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we feature and their presentation on our site, not our evaluation.

Key takeaways

  • You cannot directly pay a credit card bill with another card, but other options are available.
  • Balance transfers let you move your debt to another card with a lower interest rate.
  • Cash advances are when you borrow cash against a line of credit. You can then use the money to pay off your balance.

Imagine facing a mountain of credit card debt and wondering if there’s a way to swap one card for another. Is that even possible? Consumer credit card debt is a growing problem in the U.S. Interest rates are at a high of 24.62% APR (annual percentage rate), making it harder to pay off balances. If you can’t afford the payments, using another card to get out of the jam can be tempting.

In short, yes, it is possible to pay one credit card with another. And there’s more than one way to do it. Should you do it, though? That’s another question.

Can you pay off a credit card with another credit card?

Paying a credit card with another credit card directly isn’t possible. You cannot use a different card to make the monthly minimum payment or pay off an outstanding balance. The rule exists because financial institutions want to limit their risks. A consumer who pays their bill with another card is more likely to default. Additionally, the fees for this sort of transaction are very high.

Card issuers only accept checks, electronic bank transfers, and money orders to pay bills. While this is disappointing, there are ways around the rule. You can use a balance transfer card or cash advance as a form of payment.

Use a balance transfer card

Balance transfer cards can be used to pay off one credit card with another. If done right, you save money on interest and get out of debt faster. These cards are especially useful if you have high-interest credit card debt.

What you’ll do is transfer the unpaid balance from your high-interest account to one with a low rate. Most balance transfers come with a promotional low or 0% APR. Pay off your entire balance before the promotional period ends, and you’ll save money on interest.

Here’s how it works.

1. Apply for a card

Look for a card with an introductory 0% APR, a long promotional period, and low fees. Take your credit score into account. Most balance transfers require good to excellent credit to qualify – anything above 690 on the FICO scale.

Note that same-issuer transfers are generally not allowed. You’ll have to apply with a different provider. Once you select a suitable card, fill out an application.

2. Transfer your old balance

Contact the new provider to initiate the transfer from your original card to your new one. You will have to provide information about the debt you want to move: issuer name, amount of debt, and account information. Complete the transfer during the allotted grace period to avoid paying interest on your old account.

It can take a few weeks for the transfer to be approved and appear on your new card. Once approved, the issuer will pay off your old account directly.

3. Pay down the debt

You are now responsible for making payments on your new account. Pay it off during the introductory period, and you’ll pay little to no interest. While you’re paying off your transferred balance, don’t charge anything to either card. Adding to your debt will negate any progress you made by transferring your balance.

Need money now but can’t get a loan?

You have options for instant cash!

What to consider before transferring a balance

Transferring a balance from one card to another can be a strategic move to manage debt. If done right, you can save money and get out of debt more efficiently.

Before you apply for a balance transfer card to solve all your problems, consider the following factors:

Introductory or promotional rates

Look for offers with low or 0% interest rates. These low rates are usually available for a limited time, usually 12 to 21 months. Consider whether you can pay off the balance before the introductory period ends, and the standard APR applies.

Transfer fees

Balance transfers aren’t free. Providers typically charge up-front fees of 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. Make sure the savings from lower interest outweigh the fees.

Monthly payments

You now have to make minimum payments on the new account. If you didn’t transfer the entire balance, you’ll have to pay them on the old card too. Make sure that you can afford the monthly payments. You might lose your low introductory rate if you’re late or miss a payment. The issuer may even charge a high penalty APR. Consider setting up automatic payments to ensure you pay bills on time.

Lender restrictions

Creditors usually prohibit transfers between internal accounts. You will have to apply with a different financial institution. In addition, issuers will require a good credit history.

Credit limit

The limit you receive on your balance transfer may not be high enough to cover the total amount you owe. In this case, you can only transfer part of your current balance. You will end up paying off two cards plus the balance transfer fees.

Credit impact

Any time you apply for a new account, your score will temporarily drop a few points due to the hard inquiry. When you transfer a balance, your credit utilization ratio will shift. Whether it goes up or down depends on your credit limit. As you pay it off, your usage will decrease, which will help your score.

Avoid additional charges and make timely payments. Do these two things, and your score will go up. Any late payments will hurt your score.

Take out a cash advance

Getting a cash advance with your credit card is possible, but it is generally not advisable. The reason is it costs a lot. Typically, you won’t be doing yourself any favors with this method.

A cash advance is when you go to an ATM or local bank branch and withdraw money using your credit card. Most providers set a specific limit – usually lower than your credit limit. You can then use the money to pay off your balance.

You don’t have to withdraw cash for the transaction to be considered a cash advance. If you initiate a wire transfer or buy a money order with your card, it may qualify.

What to consider before using a cash advance

Cash advances can be helpful in an emergency when you need cash. You get instant money without having to fill out an application. But, there are better choices for paying a bill.

Here’s why.

Transaction fees

Cash advance fees can add up fast. The card issuer will charge 3% to 5% of the transaction amount or a flat fee, whichever is greater. The ATM will also likely charge a fee. Be sure to account for this when considering the amount you need.

High APR

When you use your card to make regular purchases, you won’t accrue interest until the end of the billing cycle. Most companies provide a 21-day grace period, but this isn’t true with advances.

When you withdraw cash, you accrue interest immediately. There’s no grace period. On top of that, the credit card company charges a higher APR than they do for regular transactions.

Credit impact

Taking out an advance can hurt your score since it increases your utilization ratio.

Limited amount

The amount of money you can withdraw is often lower than your total credit limit. You may not be able to access the full amount you need.

Overall, cash advances tend to be more expensive than other options. While they can be helpful in an emergency, paying your credit card bill with them is not a good idea.

9.7
Moneyfor score

Get up to $500 before payday1

  • No Credit Checks
  • Build Secured Credit Card
  • Get Paid Faster with Direct Deposit

Get up to $500 before payday1

Apply now
Review 12,985

What should you do when you can’t pay your bill?

It’s stressful when money is tight, and you can’t afford the minimum payment on your credit cards. Not being able to pay one card with another removes a loophole that could have been very helpful. If this is the case, here are some things to think about.

Review your finances

Start by looking at your credit card accounts and overall budget. Get a sense of how much you owe and the interest rates. Then, look at your income and necessary expenses (rent, utilities, groceries) to find out how much you can afford to pay. See if there’s anything you can cut back on (subscriptions, eating out, cheaper phone plan). The next step is to decide which bills take priority.

Call your creditors

Anytime you’re struggling to pay a bill, let your creditors know before you miss a payment. They may be able to help you. Many credit card companies offer temporary hardship programs. These can lower your minimum payment, waive interest or fees, and provide temporary relief. If you don’t qualify for a hardship program, your creditor may offer a payment plan or you may be able to negotiate down your debt. Be honest about your situation and polite. You never know what solution they may offer to get you out of debt.

Persistent money trouble? Consider other options

If keeping up with the minimum payments is a monthly struggle and you feel overwhelmed by debt, it’s time to explore long-term solutions. You could consolidate your debt by taking out a personal loan. You take out a loan at a lower interest rate and then use the funds to pay off your balances. You’re left with one affordable monthly bill. Loans come with fees, and you will need a good score to get a low APR.

Credit counseling is another option that does not require good credit. Visit a non-profit credit counseling agency for free advice on budgeting, debt management, and more. A counselor can set you up with a debt management plan. They will negotiate with your creditors for lower interest rates and waived fees. You then make one monthly payment to the agency, and your counselor will distribute the money. It’s similar to taking out a debt consolidation loan, but you don’t have to apply. A debt management plan can be a good way to get out of debt efficiently and for less.

When your debt is greater than 40% of your income, and there’s no way to pay it off in the near future, consider debt settlement or bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is normally considered a last resort.

Debt settlement can be more appealing. This is when you work with a debt settlement company that negotiates with your creditors to accept a lump-sum payment lower than you owe. You get out of debt for less, but your credit score will suffer; there are fees and tax implications.

9.7
Moneyfor score

Lower Your Debt and Pay It Off Sooner

  • Min Debt: $20,000
  • Free, no-obligation savings estimate
  • Talk to us how much you can save

Lower Your Debt and Pay It Off Sooner

Apply Now
Review 12,985

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I pay my credit card with another credit card?

Yes, but not directly. Financial institutions generally don’t allow direct payments from one card to another. You can use a balance transfer card or cash advance to pay your bill. A balance transfer involves moving debt from one card to another, often with a low promotional interest rate. A cash advance lets you withdraw cash from a credit card for payments—but this comes with transaction fees and a high APR.

2. How do you transfer money from one card to another?

You can transfer money between credit cards using a balance transfer card. You apply for the card and the new issuer will pay off your old balance. These cards typically come with low promotional APRs and fees.

3. Can I use a debit card to pay my credit card bill?

It depends on your credit card issuer’s policies. Some issuers do allow debit card payments, but most do not. They require a direct transfer from your bank account. Instead of putting down your debit card information, you will need to provide your routing and bank account number.

4. Can I earn points by using a credit card to pay off another credit card?

No, credit card payments do not count as purchases and, therefore, do not earn rewards points.

5. Is it possible to pay rent with a credit card?

You can pay rent with a card if your landlord or property manager accepts credit card payments. This payment method can be more expensive since most providers charge a processing fee of 2% to 3% of the rent amount.

Bottom line

In the end, paying one credit card with another isn’t straightforward or recommended. Financial institutions don’t directly permit this method because it can lead to a cycle of debt.

If you qualify for a balance transfer, it can be a good way to pay off balances and manage debt. If you cannot, consider other solutions, such as using emergency savings, a debt consolidation loan, or negotiating with your creditors.

Paying off debt will feel amazing in the end. To keep this feeling, you need to change your spending habits. Find a budget that works for you, and don’t charge what you can’t afford to pay for in cash. You’ll stay debt-free and won’t have to worry about credit card payments.

1. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.
2. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card is issued by Choice Financial Group pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. The Current Visa® secured charge card is issued by Cross River Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.
3. Individual results may vary. Using your credit card responsibly may allow you to improve your credit score. Credit building depends on various factors, including your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and other financial activities.
4. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.
5. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Funds held in Savings Pods are FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at our partner bank Choice Financial Group, member FDIC
6. Actual overdraft amount may vary and is subject to change at any time, at Current’s sole discretion. In order to qualify and enroll in the Fee-Free Overdraft feature, you must receive $500 or more in Qualifying Deposits into your Current Account over the preceding 30-day period. For more information, please refer to Fee-free Overdraft Terms and Conditions.
7. You may earn Points in connection with your everyday spending and by completing other actions that Current designates as subject to the Current Points Program. The amount of Points granted for different actions as well as the purchase requirements necessary to earn Points will vary, and is subject to Current’s sole discretion. After qualifying, please allow 3-5 business days for points to post to your Current account. The Current Points program is not available to Teen Account holders. See Current Points Terms and Conditions.
8. Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.
9. Boost Bonuses are credited to your Savings Pods within 48 hours of enabling the Boost feature and on a daily basis thereafter, provided that the Savings Pod has accrued a Boost Bonus of at least $0.01. The Boost rate on Savings Pods is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed rate is effective as of August 1, 2023. Must have $0.01 in Savings Pods to earn a Boost rate of either 0.25% or 4.00% annually on the portion of balances up to $2000 per Savings Pod, up to $6000 total. The remaining balance earns 0.00%. A qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more is required for 4.00%. No minimum balance required. For more information, please refer to Current Boost Terms and Conditions.
10. Cryptocurrency services are powered by Zero Hash LLC and Zero Hash Liquidity Services LLC, and may not be available in all states. Terms and conditions apply. When you buy or sell cryptocurrency, a difference between the current market price and the price you buy or sell that asset for is called a spread. However, unlike most other exchanges Current does not charge an additional trading fee. Cryptocurrency transactions are a form of investment, and all investments are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested. Cryptocurrency is not insured by the FDIC or any other government-backed or third-party insurance. Your purchase of cryptocurrency is not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by, Choice Financial Group or Cross River Bank. The cryptocurrency assets in your Zero Hash account are not held at Current, Choice Financial Group, or Cross River Bank. Current, Choice Financial Group, and Cross River Bank are not responsible for the cryptocurrency assets held in any Zero Hash account. Neither Current, Choice, nor Cross River Bank is involved in the purchase, sale, exchange of fiat funds for cryptocurrency, or custody of the cryptocurrencies. Terms and Conditions apply (platform and user agreements). Crypto on Current is not currently available in HI. Licensed to engage in Virtual Currency Business Activity by the New York State Department of Financial Services. This does not constitute investment advice.
11. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Your money is FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at each of our partner banks, Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, members FDIC.
12. Average value based on Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings in 2023 for stays of two nights. Benefits include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade upon arrival when available, $100 amenity, guaranteed 4PM late checkout, and noon check-in when available. Certain room categories not eligible for upgrade. $100 amenity varies by property. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability, and use of benefits.
13. Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
14. The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
15. Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one- way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
16. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
17. Coverage for a Stolen or damaged Eligible Cellular Wireless Telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per Eligible Card Account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per Eligible Card Account per 12 month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
18. When an American Express® Card Member charges a Covered Purchase to an Eligible Card, Extended Warranty§ can provide up to one extra year added to the Original Manufacturer’s Warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your Card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
19. Purchase Protection is an embedded benefit of your Card Membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect Covered Purchases made on your Eligible Card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the Covered Purchase date. The coverage is limited to up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Coverage Limits Apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
20. Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.
21. The secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card is issued by Stride Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted.
22. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted.
23. The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.
24. There’s no fee for the Chime Savings Account. Cash withdrawal and Third-party fees may apply to Chime Checking Accounts. You must have a Chime Checking Account to open a Chime Savings Account.
25. To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.
26. Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.
27. Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.
28. On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Chime will report your activities to Transunion®, Experian®, and Equifax®. Impact on your credit may vary, as Credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.
29. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.
30. SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your Visa debit card. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account for up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions.
31. Tipping or not tipping has no impact on your eligibility for SpotMe®.
32. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.
33. Save When I Get Paid automatically transfers 10% of your direct deposits of $500 or more from your Checking Account into your savings account.
34. Round Ups automatically round up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the round up from your Chime Checking Account to your savings account.
35. Mobile Check Deposit eligibility is determined by Chime in its sole discretion and may be granted based on various factors including, but not limited to, a member’s direct deposit enrollment status.
36. Funds are automatically debited from your Checking Account and typically deposited into the recipient’s Checking Account within seconds. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed.
37. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. Non-Chime members must use a valid debit card to claim funds.
* EarnIn is not available for Connecticut residents

About the author

Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor’s credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA.