Lena Hayes
The MBNA True Line® Mastercard® is a no-fee, low-interest card built to cut borrowing costs. With a 12.99% purchase rate and a 0% balance transfer promo for 12 months (3% fee) on transfers made within 90 days, it’s a simple way to pay down debt faster without rewards clutter.
Quick highlights
- 💸 $0 annual fee, issued by MBNA (division of TD).
- 📉 0% promo annual interest for 12 months on balance transfers made within 90 days (3% fee; min $3.50).
- 🧾 12.99% standard purchase interest rate.
- 🚫 No rewards program — this card is about low interest, not earning points.
Why we like the MBNA True Line® Mastercard®
It keeps costs low and terms clear. The headline 0% balance transfer window can save serious interest if you plan a paydown, while the permanent 12.99% purchase rate is well below typical cards. With no annual fee, it’s an easy keeper in your wallet as a low-rate safety net.
Stand-out features
- ✅ 0% promo annual interest for 12 months on balance transfers within 90 days (3% fee).
- ✅ Low 12.99% ongoing purchase interest.
- ✅ $0 annual fee and up to 9 authorized users at no extra cost.
- ✅ Apple Pay support and MBNA Payment Plan options.
Good to know
- ⚠️ Quebec terms/offers may differ — always check with your province selected.
- ⚠️ No rewards program; this card optimizes borrowing cost, not points.
- ⚠️ Cash advances are 24.99% and have no grace period.
Pros
- $0 annual fee with strong 0% balance transfer promo.
- Below-average 12.99% purchase interest rate.
- Straightforward terms; good for debt consolidation.
- Apple Pay + MBNA Payment Plan convenience.
Cons
- No rewards earning on purchases.
- 3% balance transfer fee (min $3.50) applies.
- No travel insurance or purchase protection listed.
Rewards program
- 🚫 There is no rewards program on the True Line® Mastercard®. It’s designed for low interest and balance transfers.
How to maximize savings
- Transfer balances within 90 days of opening to lock the 0% promo for 12 months.
- Target a payoff schedule that clears the transfer before the promo ends to avoid 17.99% BT rate.
- Avoid cash advances (24.99%); use purchases or Payment Plans if needed.
- Don’t mix new spending with a large transfer unless you can pay purchases in full monthly.
Insurance & benefits
Included
- 🛍️ Fraud monitoring and Mastercard Zero Liability.
- 🆘 Emergency card replacement.
Not included
- ❌ No travel insurance.
- ❌ No purchase protection or extended warranty listed.
Rates & fees
| Annual fee | $0 |
|---|---|
| Purchase APR | 12.99% |
| Balance transfer APR | 0% promo for 12 months (then 17.99%) |
| Cash advance APR | 24.99% |
| Balance transfer fee | 3% (min $3.50) on each transfer |
| Grace period | At least 21 days on new purchases when you pay the balance in full |
Best uses & who it’s for
- 📉 Paying down existing card balances at a lower cost.
- 🧰 Keeping a low-rate backup card for unexpected expenses.
- 💸 Users who don’t care about rewards and prioritize interest savings.
Where it falls short
- No rewards or premium benefits.
- Transfer fee reduces the net savings on small balances.
- Offer details and rates can vary by province (check Québec specifics).
Customer reviews
Positive feedback
“The 0% transfer let me clear debt way faster.”
“Love that there’s no fee and the rate is low year-round.”
Critiques
“Wish it had some purchase protection or rewards.”
“Cash advance rate is steep — avoid it.”
Community insights
Among Canadian deal-hunters, True Line is often recommended as a dedicated balance transfer tool or low-rate emergency card. Many pair it with a separate rewards card for everyday purchases.
AI review (straight talk)
If your goal is debt reduction, this is one of the most practical no-fee options in Canada. The 0% transfer window plus a permanently low purchase APR is a powerful combo — just plan to clear the transfer before the promo ends.
Alternatives & comparison
| Card | Annual Fee | Purchase APR | BT Promo | Cash Advance APR | Key Perks | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBNA True Line® Mastercard® | $0 | 12.99% | 0% for 12 mo (3% fee) | 24.99% | No-fee, low rate | Balance transfers |
| MBNA True Line® Gold Mastercard® | $39 | 10.99% | — | 24.99% | Lower ongoing rate | Carrying balances |
FAQ
Is there an annual fee?
No — the MBNA True Line® Mastercard® has a $0 annual fee.
What’s the balance transfer offer?
0% promotional annual interest for 12 months on transfers completed within 90 days of opening; a 3% fee (min $3.50) applies.
Are there rewards?
No, this card is designed for low interest and balance transfers.
Is travel insurance included?
No travel or purchase protection benefits are advertised for this card.
Final verdict & ratings
Our take If you’re paying interest elsewhere, the True Line® Mastercard® is a cost-cutter. Use the 0% transfer period strategically, then keep it for its consistently low 12.99% purchase APR.
| Overall | ★★★★☆ 4.3 / 5 |
|---|---|
| Interest savings | 4.6 / 5 — strong BT promo + low APR |
| Benefits & protections | 2.8 / 5 — minimal extras |
| Fees & costs | 4.9 / 5 — no annual fee |
| Ease of approval | 4.3 / 5 — broad eligibility |
