Question about 0% purchases

[ken234]

Hi,

I'm confused about the 0% purchase offers from credit card companies, I can't comprehend the terms.

Can someone please help me?

Say you have 6 months 0% APR. If you purchase things during the six months interest-free, when the six months are over does the interest kick in on the balance starting on that day OR do they charge you going back 6 months if the balance isn't paid in full?

Thanks.

[disneysteve]

With credit cards, typically it is the first method you mentioned. Interest starts accruing at the end of the 6 months. With store credit, like at a furniture store for example, it is usually the 2nd method - if you don't pay the balance by the end of the 6 months, they retroactively charge the interest you would have paid.