We need to understand that there are at least 3 different kinds of checks that credit card issuers allow us to use. We need to be careful that we use ONLY the ones that are specifically designated as Balance Transfer Checks under the terms of our agreement.

We never want to use what are sometimes called Cash Advance Checks or Convenience Checks. Both Cash Advance and Convenience Checks generally carry terms which are awful for the consumer. 25% interest rates, huge transfer fees, etc. NEVER, EVER use these.

We are frugal and conservative and always like to call up customer service and make sure that we completely understand the terms of the Balance Transfer Check that we are about to use. Even when we are certain that the check we hold has a 0% interest rate for 12 months with zero balance transfer fees we generally call up customer service, read them the check number and have them confirm.

It just does not hurt to be too careful about this stuff.