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First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card card

First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card

By the Best Credit Cards Guide editorial team · Information from the original card page, updated May 28, 2025

Annual fee
None
Recommended credit
Good / Fair
Card network
Visa
Regular purchase APR
14.99% to 23.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
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Check before you apply: the rates, fees and offers on this page are as listed on the original card page (updated May 28, 2025) and may have changed. Confirm current terms on the issuer’s website. Best Credit Cards Guide may be compensated by some issuers; see our Advertiser Disclosure.

At a glance

The First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card features this bank’s lowest APR for personal credit cards. Cardholders also are free from having to pay an annual fee. What’s more, new cardholders can take advantage of 0% APR on balance transfers for 12 months from the date that they open an account.

Our review of the First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card

The First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card from First Citizens Bank is a no-frills credit card option that prioritizes a lower APR over rewards. If you prefer simplicity and lower interest rates over earning points, this card may be the right choice for you.

Key Features

  • No annual fee
  • 0% APR for 12 months on balance transfers
  • Exclusive Visa discounts
  • Lower potential APR compared to other First Citizens credit cards

Low Interest Rate

The First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card offers cardholders a lower potential APR compared to other personal credit cards from the bank. While this card does not offer rewards, the trade-off for a lower interest rate may be worth it in the long run.

0% APR on Balance Transfers

New cardholders can take advantage of zero interest for 12 months when transferring a balance from another credit card. This can be a great way to pay off high-interest debt without accruing additional interest charges.

Additional Visa Perks

Cardholders also have access to exclusive Visa discounts on popular products and services. Additionally, Visa offers warranty extensions on purchases made with the card and travel emergency services for peace of mind while traveling.

Is It Right for You?

The First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card is a good fit for those who prioritize a lower APR and simplicity in their credit card. If you are a First Citizens customer and value lower interest rates over rewards, this card may be a beneficial addition to your wallet.

Consider this card if you are looking to consolidate high-interest debt with the 0% APR balance transfer offer. Overall, the benefits of this card may outweigh the lack of rewards for some users.

If you are interested in a basic credit card with a focus on lower interest rates and simplicity, the First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card could be a wise choice for your financial needs.

Card features

Benefits as listed on the original card page. They can change; confirm details with the issuer.

  • No annual fee
  • First Citizens Bank's lowest APR
  • 0% introductory rate on balance transfers for 12 months

Who this card may suit

  • You want a basic credit card
  • You prefer having a lower APR than having extra perks
  • You don’t want to pay an annual fee
  • You want to transfer a balance and plan to pay it off in 12 months

Rates, fees and terms

Rates, fees and terms as listed on the original card page (updated May 28, 2025). Confirm current terms on the issuer’s site.
Annual FeeNone
Regular Purchase APR14.99% to 23.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Intro Balance Transfer APR0% for 12 months for purchases made within 90 days from account opening date
Balance Transfer APR14.99% to 23.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction FeeEither $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance APR26.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction FeeEither $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Foreign Transaction Fee3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
Late Payment Penalty FeeUp to $39
Return Payment Penalty Fee$25

Confirm before you apply: rates, fees and offers change often. The figures above are the ones listed on the original card page, not a current quote from the issuer. APRs are typically variable, and the rate you receive depends on your creditworthiness. Recommended credit: Good Credit Fair Credit.

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First Citizens Smart Option® Visa® Card

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