The average credit card APR in 2026 is 24.6% — the highest on record. Yet a surprising 76% of people who call their credit card company to request a lower rate get one, according to a LendingTree survey. The average reduction is 5–6 percentage points.
On a $7,000 balance, dropping from 24% to 18% saves $420/year in interest. Here is exactly how to do it, including word-for-word scripts.
Before You Call: Prepare Your Case
Spend 5 minutes preparing before calling — this dramatically improves your chances:
- Know your current rate: Check your latest statement for the Purchase APR.
- Check your credit score: If it has improved since you opened the card, you have leverage. Free at annualcreditreport.com or through most banking apps.
- Research competitor offers: Find 1–2 cards with lower rates. Balance transfer offers with 0% introductory APR are excellent leverage.
- Review your payment history: Consistent on-time payments for 6+ months strengthen your position significantly.
The Phone Script That Works
Call the number on the back of your card. Navigate to a representative (say "representative" or press 0). Then use this script:
"Hi, I've been a loyal customer for [X years] and I've always paid on time. I recently reviewed my account and noticed my APR is [current rate]%. I've received offers from other cards with significantly lower rates, including a [competitor rate]% offer. Before I consider transferring my balance, I'd like to see if you can lower my rate to keep my business. Is there anything you can do?"
If the first representative says no, politely ask to speak with a supervisor or the retention department. Retention specialists have more authority to offer rate reductions. If they offer a small reduction, ask: "I appreciate that. Is there any way to go lower? I was hoping for something closer to [target rate]%."
What to Do If They Say No
If negotiation fails, you still have options:
- Call back in 1–2 months: Different representatives have different authority levels. Your odds improve if your credit has changed or you have been a customer longer.
- Apply for a balance transfer card: Many offer 0% APR for 15–21 months with a 3–5% transfer fee. This effectively eliminates interest during the promotional period.
- Pay aggressively: Use our Credit Card Payoff Calculator to see exactly how much extra monthly payment saves in interest. Even an extra $100/month can save thousands.
- Consider a debt consolidation loan: Personal loans from credit unions typically offer 8–14% APR — far better than 24% credit card rates.
The Math: How Much You Save
Here is the real impact of a rate reduction on a $7,000 balance with $250/month payments:
- 24% APR: 36 months to payoff, $1,900 in interest paid.
- 18% APR: 33 months to payoff, $1,300 in interest paid. Savings: $600.
- 12% APR: 31 months to payoff, $830 in interest paid. Savings: $1,070.
- 0% balance transfer: 28 months to payoff, $0 in interest (plus ~$245 transfer fee). Savings: $1,655.
Try the Credit Card Payoff Calculator
Put this knowledge into action with our free calculator. Get instant, personalized results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I negotiate my credit card rate?
You can call every 6 months. Credit card companies regularly review and adjust rates, and your financial profile changes over time. Each call takes about 10 minutes. If your credit score has improved, you have a stronger case each time. Some people negotiate annually and have reduced their rate from 24% to 14% over 2–3 calls.
Will asking for a lower rate hurt my credit score?
No. Requesting a lower rate on an existing card does not require a hard inquiry and will not affect your credit score. The issuer may do a soft pull (which has no impact). This is different from applying for a new card, which does involve a hard inquiry.
What is a good credit card interest rate in 2026?
With the average at 24.6%, anything below 18% is considered good, and below 14% is excellent. If you have excellent credit (750+), you may qualify for cards with rates of 14–17%. However, the best strategy is to pay your balance in full each month — making the interest rate irrelevant. If you are carrying a balance, focus on getting the lowest rate possible.
Should I close a credit card after paying it off?
Usually no. Closing a card reduces your total available credit, which increases your credit utilization ratio and can lower your credit score. It also reduces the average age of your accounts. Instead, keep the card open with a small recurring charge (like a subscription) and pay it off automatically each month. The exception: if the card has an annual fee and you do not use its benefits enough to justify the cost.