What “up to 38 months at 0%” actually means
TSB product page checked 3 November 2026 · Offers can change
A long interest-free period catches the eye. Before doing anything with a balance-transfer advert, turn it into three practical questions: which offer could I receive, what is the fee in pounds, and what payment would clear the balance in time?
The example checked for this article
On 3 November 2026, TSB’s Platinum balance transfer page advertised up to 38 months at 0% on transferred balances, with a 3.49% fee for transfers made in the first 90 days. It quoted 24.9% APR representative, variable.
The page also listed a separate three-month purchase promotion. That is not a 38-month shopping offer. This article explains the wording of one product; it is not a market-wide comparison or a recommendation to apply.
“Up to” is a ceiling, not a promise
Do not plan around 38 months until the offer made to you confirms that period. Check the actual credit limit, the amount you can transfer and all relevant dates. An eligibility indication is not the same thing as the final agreement.
If an application offers different terms, redo the calculation. A shorter period leaves fewer payments in which to clear the same starting balance.
What the advertised fee would mean in pounds
On an illustrative £2,500 qualifying transfer, 3.49% is £87.25. If the fee is added to the transferred balance, there would be £2,587.25 to repay.
Assuming that entire amount stays at 0% for 38 full monthly payments, £2,587.25 ÷ 38 gives a rounded-up target of £68.09 a month. The final payment would be smaller. This assumes no extra spending, charges or loss of the promotion; check the minimum payment separately.
The transfer window and the end date are different
The period in which you must make a qualifying transfer is not the length of the interest-free offer. Confirm when the promotional clock starts and when the balance must be cleared.
Save the offer terms you actually accept and put the end date in a calendar. If the balance is still outstanding as that date approaches, review it early. Do not assume another 0% offer will be available to move it again.
Sources & further reading
Sources checked on 3 November 2026. Examples are illustrative unless identified as reported figures or a provider’s terms. General information, not personal financial advice.