Chase Slate review: A no-annual-fee card for paying down debt

Chase Slate overview

The Chase Slate® (see rates and fees) is tailored to consumers who want to improve their financial profile by reducing their credit card debt or raising their credit score. This card comes with a lengthy introductory annual percentage rate period to help you avoid interest for 21 months (then a variable APR of 18.24%-28.24%), plus several other incentives after you make consistent on-time payments. Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐

*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

At TPG, we often focus on cards that earn valuable rewards, but not every credit card is designed for points and perks. Some cards serve a more foundational purpose, like helping you get your finances back on track.

If you're carrying a balance or working to improve your credit score, choosing the right card can make a meaningful difference. Certain no-annual-fee options offer features like introductory interest-free periods and built-in credit-tracking tools that can help you chip away at debt while establishing healthier long-term habits.

The Chase Slate is one such card. It's geared toward consumers who want a straightforward way to reduce interest charges, simplify payments and gradually strengthen their credit profile. Applicants will generally need a credit score of 670 or above to qualify, but for the right person, it can be a practical stepping stone toward more rewarding cards in the future.

Let's take a closer look at the Chase Slate to see when it makes sense, and when another option might be a better fit.

Chase Slate pros and cons

Chase Slate welcome offer

The Chase Slate doesn't feature a traditional welcome offer, which isn't unusual for cards focused on credit building and debt reduction rather than rewards. Instead of points or cash back, the card's primary value comes from its financing features and the opportunity to improve your credit profile with responsible use.

New cardholders may also be considered for a credit line increase after demonstrating consistent, on-time payments during the first several months of account ownership. While this isn't a flashy perk, a higher limit can help lower your credit utilization ratio, which is an important factor in your credit score.

Chase Slate benefits

The Chase Slate is built for function rather than flair. You won't earn rewards on spending, but the card provides several practical tools for managing debt and strengthening your credit over time.

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One of its main features is an introductory interest-free period on both purchases and balance transfers. Cardmembers enjoy 0% introductory APR period on purchases and balance transfers for the first 21 months from account opening (then a variable APR of 18.24%-28.24%). This window can provide meaningful breathing room to pay down existing balances without additional interest piling up. This means you can transfer your account balance from your existing credit cards to the Chase Slate and enjoy a sweet 0% interest rate.

Just keep in mind that a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer (whichever is greater) still applies, and any remaining balance after the promotional period will accrue the standard variable APR.

Beyond financing, Chase includes a few helpful account-management features:

• Credit Journey: Free access to your credit score and monitoring alerts
• Chase Pay Over Time: A tool that lets you break eligible purchases into fixed monthly payments for a set fee
• Automatic account reviews: Responsible use may lead to a higher credit limit over time

In short, the Chase Slate isn't meant to maximize spending power or travel perks. Its strength lies in providing structure, visibility and short-term financing options that can help cardholders regain control of their finances and build healthier credit habits.

Related: 6 things to do to improve your credit score

Which cards compete with the Chase Slate?

The Chase Slate is built for debt reduction and credit improvement, but it's not the only option in this space. Depending on your goals, another no-annual-fee card may offer a better long-term fit.

• For earning rewards while paying down balances: The Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees) earns 2% cash back on all purchases (1% when you make a purchase and another 1% when you pay off your balance for those purchases). While its introductory financing period may be shorter, the ongoing rewards structure can provide more value once your balance is under control. To learn more, read our full review of the Citi Double Cash.
• For rebuilding from a low credit score: A secured credit card like the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card can be easier to qualify for. You'll provide a refundable security deposit (up to $1,000) that typically becomes your credit limit, making it a practical starting point for establishing or repairing credit history. To learn more, read our full review of the Capital One Platinum Secured.
• For cash back and flexibility: The Chase Freedom Flex® (see rates and fees) combines rotating bonus categories with everyday earning rates. It's better suited for cardholders who want to earn rewards immediately and who don't need extended financing. To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Freedom Flex.

For additional options, check out our full lists of the best secured cards and best starter cards.

Read more: What is a secured credit card?

Is the Chase Slate worth it?

The Chase Slate can be worthwhile if your primary goal is to reduce high-interest debt or establish healthier credit habits.

If one of your immediate goals is to reduce credit card debt, the Chase Slate can serve as a useful short-term financial tool. However, once your balances are paid off and your credit improves, you may outgrow the card. At that point, transitioning to a rewards card could provide significantly more long-term value.

Bottom line

The Chase Slate is a practical option for consumers focused on debt reduction and credit improvement rather than earning points or cash back. Its extended introductory APR period, lack of an annual fee and built-in credit monitoring tools make it a strong fit for those looking to stabilize their finances.

While it won't deliver travel perks or bonus categories, the Slate can act as a stepping stone, helping future cardholders build responsible habits and position themselves for more rewarding credit cards in the future.

Related: Credit cards 101: The beginner's guide