What are the pros and cons of transferring credit card debt to a HELOC?

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) usually carries a far lower rate than credit cards – often single digits versus 22–28% – so moving card debt to a HELOC can slash your interest and monthly cost. The interest may also be tax-deductible in limited cases. But the trade-off is significant: you're converting unsecured debt into debt secured by your home. If you can't repay, you risk foreclosure, whereas credit card default "only" damages your credit. HELOCs also typically have variable rates that can rise, and many are interest-only during the draw period, which can mask the real payoff math and tempt you to borrow more. The biggest behavioral risk is paying off cards with home equity, then running the cards up again and ending with both debts. Use a HELOC only with a firm payoff plan and the discipline to leave the cards alone. Your home is the collateral – respect that.