Do you have an existing balance on one or more credit cards? Is the interest rate on those cards too high, making it difficult to pay the balance off to get out of debt? If that sounds like your situation, then a balance transfer credit card might be what you’re looking for. But how do you make sure you get the right balance transfer deal rather than another offer that’s going to cost too much in the long run?

Here are three ways you can try to get the best offer possible on a new balance transfer credit card offer.

1. Figure out how long it will take to pay your balance off.

One of the most important features of a balance transfer credit card is the length of its introductory offer. Before you compare credit cards, figure out how long it will take you to pay off your existing balances. If it’s going to take you 12 months, don’t get a card with a balance transfer rate that expires in three months. If you do, you’ll end up paying higher interest rates again after the introductory rate expires.

2. Choose a card with a balance transfer rate that reverts to the purchase rate.

If you must choose a balance transfer credit card with an introductory offer that will expire before you can pay the balance in full, make sure the rate reverts to the purchase rate. Some credit cards revert to high cash advance rates instead, which can lead to even higher interest than you have on your current credit card.

Better yet, look for a card that offers both a balance transfer offer and a low regular purchase rate that it will revert to. The ANZ Low Rate MasterCard is a good example. When its 12-month, 2.9% balance transfer rate expires it will revert to the still-low 13.49% interest rate on purchases.

3. Try to consolidate.

If you currently carry balances on multiple high interest credit cards, you might save the most by consolidating. Try to get a good balance transfer deal with a high enough credit limit to transfer your other balances to a single card. Not only will this simplify your monthly payments but it will also let you take full advantage of the best deal you can find. Otherwise only part of your existing balances will be subject to optimal new balance transfer terms.

These are just a few ways you can try to get the most of a balance transfer credit card offer. If you need help finding available offers to consider, check out our credit card comparison engine.