Credit Cards
Barclaycard Platinum Review: 36-Month 0% Balance Transfer & Cashback
Designed for debt consolidation, this card helps you move existing balances and save on interest during the promotional period.
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Note: The information provided in this article is accurate at the time of publication, but may be subject to change or cancellation by the card issuer.
Is the Barclaycard Platinum Balance Transfer Credit Card Worth It?
Managing your finances often means juggling payment deadlines, interest rates, and keeping an eye on monthly costs. A credit card can help organise your payments while providing extra benefits, if chosen thoughtfully.

The Barclaycard Platinum is designed to support people looking to reduce the cost of existing credit card debt. Its long 0% balance transfer offer, along with cashback and entertainment extras, make it stand out in the market.
This review covers every aspect of the Barclaycard Platinum. You’ll find a summary table of key facts, detailed explanations of features, a balanced look at pros and cons, who it’s best for, who might look elsewhere, and how to apply.
Barclaycard Platinum Key Facts at a Glance
| Annual fee | £0 |
| Balance transfer rate | 0% for up to 36 months (when applied within 60 days) |
| Balance transfer fee | 3.45% per transfer |
| Purchase interest rate | 0% for 3 months, then representative 24.9% APR variable |
| Cashback offer | £20 when you transfer £2,500+ within 60 days |
| Extra perks | 12 months Apple TV subscription (for new Apple TV users, T&Cs apply) |
| Other costs | Standard interest applies after promotional period; see terms for details |
| Eligibility | 18+, income and credit assessment, UK resident |
| Ideal users | Those consolidating higher-interest credit card balances |
| Not ideal for | Borrowers seeking long-term purchases 0% or no transfer fees |
| Next Steps | Check eligibility and carefully review latest card terms before applying |
General Features and Everyday Usefulness
The Barclaycard Platinum focuses on helping users manage and reduce existing credit card debt. Its generous 0% interest on balance transfers creates savings opportunities when used intentionally.
People often choose this card to move a balance from a higher-interest card. The 36-month 0% window eases pressure to pay off debt fast, spreading repayments more comfortably.
Beyond debt consolidation, the card delivers perks such as cashback on qualifying transfers and entertainment with a year-long Apple TV offer. These extras reward users who meet specific opening criteria.
Security is prioritised with round-the-clock fraud protection for all purchases, including those abroad or online, providing peace of mind in daily use.
Flexible additional features, such as adding another cardholder at no extra cost, allow families or partners to combine regular spending on one account if needed.
Pros and Cons of the Barclaycard Platinum
Evaluating the strengths and possible drawbacks gives a clearer picture of whether the card will work for you, helping you make an informed decision.
Pros
- Long 36-month 0% balance transfer offer gives you more time to pay off existing debt interest-free, easing monthly financial strain for many households.
- No annual fee means you can keep the card cost-effectively, even if you’re mainly using it to consolidate older debt rather than for daily purchases.
- £20 cashback for larger balance transfers boosts initial savings and encourages moving substantial amounts, maximising card benefits early on.
- 12 months of complimentary Apple TV adds a reward for new users, enhancing entertainment value if you qualify and redeem within offer timeframes.
- Comprehensive purchase protection and free extra cardholder option improve everyday safety and flexibility for cardholders managing shared expenses.
Cons
- 3.45% balance transfer fee means larger transfers may incur significant upfront costs; calculate the fee versus the total interest you’ll save before deciding.
- Short 0% interest window for purchases limits flexibility; after three months, standard purchase rates apply, making it less competitive for new spending.
- Introductory offers only available to new customers; existing Barclaycard holders can’t access special rates or incentives, so benefits may not be repeatable.
- Minimum transfer amount of £250 and only non-Barclaycard balances restrict who can use the offer; check your existing card providers first.
- The balance transfer period starts upon account opening, not from transfer date, so delay in transferring reduces the 0% benefit window.
Eligibility Requirements

Barclaycard Platinum, like many cards in this category, generally expects applicants to have at least fair to good credit. A history of responsible borrowing improves your chances.
Applicants must provide up-to-date personal details, address history for two years, employment information, and outline income before and after tax, as well as regular outgoings.
First-time Barclaycard applicants are eligible for the introductory offers. It’s important to note that existing customers and partner cardholders may not qualify.
Strengthen your application by checking your credit file in advance and ensuring no recent missed payments or over-borrowing. Using the eligibility checker helps avoid unnecessary impacts on your credit score.
How to Apply for Barclaycard Platinum
Applying for the Barclaycard Platinum is straightforward but requires careful preparation and accurate information. Here’s what you need to do for the best chance of success:
- Review the terms and conditions fully to confirm the card matches your goals for debt consolidation, cash flow, or perks before you proceed.
- Collect all personal, residential, employment, and income details, covering a period of at least two years, to complete the application smoothly.
- Examine your current credit card balances and recent account statements to verify which balances qualify for transfers and the savings you can expect.
- Use Barclaycard’s online eligibility checker, which takes a few minutes and doesn’t impact your credit score, giving a preview of your approval odds.
- Submit your official application via the Barclaycard website, filling out every section clearly; be ready for immediate or next-day feedback depending on review requirements.
- If pre-approved, wait for final confirmation and your new card to be delivered, usually within seven working days, along with details on account setup and statement access.
- Upon arrival, activate the card and complete your initial balance transfers within 60 days to secure the full 0% period and any applicable cashback or bonuses.
After activation, set up your account in online banking to keep track of offers, balances, and regular statements. Begin transfers promptly for maximum value.
Who the Card Is Best For
Individuals with outstanding balances on multiple credit cards can use the Barclaycard Platinum to combine debts and reduce total interest costs significantly over time.
Budget-conscious households who want to avoid annual fees benefit from its zero-fee structure and the opportunity for flexible repayment without extra costs.
New cardholders interested in supplementary perks, such as Apple TV or cashback, get added value provided they transfer qualifying amounts within the promotional period.
Anyone seeking extra flexibility by sharing account access with another family member will find the free additional cardholder feature particularly helpful for regular budgeting and shopping.
Who Should Not Get This Card
Shoppers looking for long-term zero interest on purchases, rather than balance transfers, may find better value in specialist purchase credit cards with lengthier offers.
Frequent overseas travellers needing comprehensive travel insurance or no-foreign-transaction-fee perks may prefer cards tailored for global use.
Users unwilling to pay upfront balance transfer fees, especially on large amounts, may find other cards with reduced or no transfer fees a better fit for consolidating debts.
Applicants who already hold Barclaycards or whose balances are from partner brands cannot transfer those funds or access the main benefits outlined here.
Final Thoughts
The Barclaycard Platinum stands out for its very long 0% balance transfer period and a rewarding range of extra perks for new applicants who meet eligibility rules.
Some limitations exist, including the transfer fee, short-lived 0% purchases period, and strict eligibility for existing Barclaycard customers.
People looking to simplify their debts or save on interest without annual fees will find this card especially valuable, while regular shoppers may wish to compare alternatives.
Before applying, check your eligibility, compare updated terms, and ensure it aligns with your current borrowing needs and habits for the best results.
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