Ireland’s best 0% purchase credit cards
Enjoy zero or discounted interest rates on purchases and spread the cost of spending. Compare the best purchase credit cards in Ireland and save money on interest in minutes.
0% purchase credit cards, at a glance
0% purchase credit cards let you spread the cost of new purchases without paying interest for a set period.
In Ireland, interest-free purchase offers typically last between 3 and 12 months, with some shorter or longer promotions available.
They’re best suited to people who:
If you already have credit card debt, a balance transfer credit card may be more suitable.
What are 0% purchase credit cards used for?
A 0% purchase credit card is designed for new spending, not for clearing existing credit card balances.
Common uses include:
You won’t be charged interest on qualifying purchases during the introductory period, provided you:
- Make at least the minimum repayment each month
- Stay within your credit limit
What is a 0% purchase credit card?
It’s a type of credit card that allows you to buy goods and services without paying any interest for a set period.
Once the introductory interest-free credit period ends, you will start to pay the standard variable interest rate that your card provider sets, on any remaining balance.
How does a 0% purchase credit card save money?
The main saving comes from avoiding interest altogether.
If you repay your balance in full before the 0% period ends:
- You borrow without paying interest
- You can spread repayments over several months
- You avoid the cost of loans or overdrafts
However, you must still:
- Make monthly minimum repayments
- Plan how you’ll clear the balance before the offer expires
How long do 0% purchase credit cards last in Ireland?
Interest-free purchase offers in Ireland vary by provider and change regularly.
Most 0% purchase credit cards offer:
Remember, a longer interest-free period isn’t always better: the right option depends on how quickly you plan to repay what you spend.
What happens when the introductory rate ends?
When your introductory period ends, you will start to pay interest on your purchases and any outstanding balance.
If you’re near the end of your introductory period and haven’t paid off your balance, here’s what you can do to avoid paying the higher rate of interest;
- Pay off the remaining balance in full
- Increase the monthly repayment to the most you can afford
- Transfer the balance to a balance transfer card with a 0% offer
Quick decision guide: is a 0% purchase card right for you?
Choose a purchase card
Choose an alternative
How to choose the best 0% purchase card
Before you compare credit cards, it is worth thinking about what you want to use the card for, e.g. one major purchase or lots of small things and for how long you need credit, e.g. several months or over a year or two.
When you are comparing purchase credit cards, consider these factors:
If you’re unsure, choosing a card with a longer interest-free period can give you more breathing room. Our Complete Guide to Credit Cards can also give you tips on borrowing wisely.
Is a 0% rate always the best choice?
A 0% purchase card can be a great option, but only if you repay the balance before the offer ends. If you don’t, interest can be charged at a much higher standard rate.
It’s worth thinking about how confident you are in your repayment plan before choosing a 0% deal.
Other pros and cons include:
Pros
Cons
What are the alternatives to 0% purchase cards?
Low-interest purchase cards
Some cards offer a discounted purchase rate instead of 0%, often for longer periods. They can work out cheaper if you need more time to repay.
Instalment plan options
Some credit cards let you split larger purchases (often €250+) into fixed monthly instalments. This keeps repayments predictable at a lower rate than standard purchases.
Personal loans
A personal loan may suit larger amounts, with fixed repayments over a set term. For smaller sums, a credit card can still work out cheaper.
Overdrafts
Overdrafts can help with very short-term or cash-based spending. They can become expensive if used for longer periods.
Example: which option can be cheaper?
The cheapest option usually depends on how long you need to repay and whether you clear the balance before a promotional rate ends.
Rule of thumb: 0% purchase cards work best when you’re confident you can repay before the offer ends. Otherwise, a longer low-interest option is often safer and cheaper.
How is credit card interest calculated?
Once a 0% introductory period ends, interest is charged on any remaining balance at the card’s standard APR (Annual Percentage Rate). To estimate the monthly cost:
For example, with an 18% APR (Annual Percentage Rate), the monthly rate is about 1.5%. On a balance of €1,000, that would be around €15 in interest for the month.
Understanding how interest is calculated can help you decide whether you’re likely to clear the balance before interest starts to apply.
Ready to compare 0% purchase credit cards?
If you’re confident you can repay before the interest-free period ends, a 0% purchase credit card can be a cost-effective way to spread the cost of new spending without paying interest.
Compare the 0% purchase credit cards currently available in Ireland to see:
Learn about the best credit card for your needs in our Complete Guide to Credit Cards.
0% Purchase credit card FAQs
What is a credit limit?
Your credit limit is the maximum amount you can spend on your credit card. In effect, the amount the card issuer is prepared to lend you on the card. It will be based on your income, outgoings and credit history. You will only find out your credit limit when your application has been approved.
If you want to find out more about how to increase your credit limit, read our guide on credit limits.
What is the minimum repayment?
A minimum repayment is the minimum amount you must pay towards your monthly credit card balance.
Ideally, you should pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges, but if that is not possible you must make a minimum repayment every month.
If you don’t, you risk paying a penalty, owing extra interest and harming your credit score.
What are other ways to avoid credit card interest?
There are other ways to avoid paying credit card interest, such as:
- Paying your credit card bill in full every month
- Consider a personal loan or debt consolidation loan
- Using a balance transfer credit card
- Using your savings to pay your debt
Is a 0% purchase card cheaper than a loan?
It depends on whether you repay your credit card balance in full each month and how much you have borrowed.
If you’re looking to borrow a smaller amount, a credit card could be the cheaper option. That’s because interest rates on personal loans can be higher on smaller sums.
If you need to borrow a much larger amount of money, then a personal loan could work out better, as your credit card limit might not stretch that far.
What about an overdraft?
It depends on how you use your credit card and the overdraft arrangements you have with your bank.
You choice also depends on:
- How much you want to borrow: You can typically get a higher borrowing limit on a credit card.
- How you want to spend it: Overdrafts are more suitable for cash purchases or cash withdrawals.
- How quickly you need it: If you have a current account, accessing an overdraft is usually a quicker way to borrow.