Should I do a balance transfer if I can't pay off the balance before the intro period ends?

It can still help, but proceed carefully. A 0% intro APR balance transfer saves interest during the promo window, typically 12 to 21 months. If you won't clear it in time, whatever remains reverts to the card's regular APR, often 20% or higher, and any transfer fee (commonly 3% to 5%) is a real upfront cost.

Run the math: if the fee plus interest on the leftover balance is still less than what you'd pay staying put, it's a win. A smart move is to transfer, aggressively pay the balance during the promo, and have a second consolidation plan ready for the remainder. Never charge new purchases on a transfer card, since those may not get the 0% rate. Compare scenarios at wealthserene.com/tools/debt-payoff.