Abstract: A transfer belt is provided that includes two elongated pads. The pads are disposed on the belt proximate to both sides of the wearer. The pads minimize discomfort for the wearer by ensuring that forces applied on the belt are applied through a surface area that is much larger than that of the belt and through a cushioning pad which is much softer than the belt. The addition of the pads greatly increases the safety of using a transfer belt on a patient. The pads also provide an increase in the comfort and safety for the medical or care taking assistant during the use of the transfer belt. This comfort and safety is provided by the presence of a gap between the belt and the belt wearer within which the medical or care taking assistant can place their hand.