
Ready for interest relief without the fluff?
If you want time to pay down a major expense or move a balance without piling on interest, the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum was built for cost control, not points. It emphasizes a lengthy 0% intro APR period on purchases and balance transfers, no annual fee, and practical protections that fit real life—helping you focus on payoff strategy instead of complex rewards.
Benefits
- Long 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers: A sizable promotional period designed to help you finance responsibly before the standard variable APR kicks in. Balance transfers must be initiated shortly after opening to qualify.
- $0 annual fee: Keep fixed costs down while you pay off principal.
- Cell phone protection: When you pay your monthly wireless bill with the card, you can be reimbursed for theft or damage—up to $600 per incident, $1,200 per 12 months, with a $25 deductible.
- Transparent balance-transfer terms: A transfer fee applies—commonly 3% in the first 60 days, then 5% afterward; factor that into your savings math.
- Credit tools and security features: Access to credit score info and built-in security features help you monitor and protect your account.
Product quality: how these points help you
A lengthy 0% intro APR gives you a structured window to eliminate interest while attacking principal—especially useful for one large purchase or a consolidated balance. The $0 annual fee keeps the card low-maintenance, and the cell-phone protection can offset repair or replacement costs after covered incidents, adding real-world value you don’t have to “activate” via categories.
Show me the savings and advantages
Using a 0% intro APR period strategically can beat many entry-level rewards in year one: every dollar goes further toward principal instead of interest, and you’re not paying an annual fee while you do it. Even after adding a transfer fee, many cardholders still come out ahead compared with carrying a high-APR balance elsewhere—especially if transfers are made within the promotional window.
More potential savings and advantages
Cell phone protection can reduce out-of-pocket surprises; two covered claims per 12 months (up to $600 each, $25 deductible) may be cheaper than third-party insurance for some users. And because the card focuses on cost control, it’s simpler to manage than rewards cards with rotating categories or breakage-prone perks.
Safety & peace of mind
U.S. Bank layers standard security tools and monitoring on its cards, plus specific protections like the cell-phone benefit when eligibility conditions are met (e.g., paying your wireless bill with the card). That blend helps you manage both your budget and your essentials.
More on safety
Because this product doesn’t push complex rewards ecosystems, there’s less incentive to overspend for points. Pair that with fraud monitoring and account alerts, and it’s easier to stick to a payoff plan during the intro period.
Eligibility criteria
Availability note: As of March–April 2025, U.S. Bank is not accepting new applications for the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum; existing cardholders remain unaffected. Historically, the card has been available to United States residents only. Always confirm current status and terms on U.S. Bank’s site.
Application process
- Apply online at U.S. Bank: Complete the secure application with personal details and authorize a credit check.
- Plan any balance transfers: Initiate transfers within the eligible window to lock in the intro APR; review the transfer fee and payoff timeline before submitting.
- Set up account tools: Turn on alerts, enroll in autopay, and (if desired) pay your wireless bill with the card to activate phone protection eligibility.
- Check application status: If needed, call U.S. Bank credit-card support for updates.
FQA
1) Does the card earn rewards?
No—this product prioritizes a long 0% intro APR and $0 annual fee over rewards. Consider it a cost-control tool.
2) Is there cell phone insurance?
Yes. Pay your monthly wireless bill with the card and you may be reimbursed for covered theft or damage, up to $600 per claim (max $1,200 per 12 months; $25 deductible).
3) What balance-transfer costs apply?
A fee applies (commonly 3% in the first 60 days, then 5%), so include it when calculating savings versus your current APR.
4) Can I still apply?
As of 2025, U.S. Bank has closed new applications for the Visa Platinum and introduced the U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa as its low-APR alternative. Check the bank’s site for the latest.