Mastercard has a very unique place in the banking and financial industry because the company is not the actual issuer of its services. Instead, MasterCard is more of a third party that helps banks or credit unions provide services to members. As a company, MasterCard is always innovating and working to improve the technologies offered. Over its fifty-year history, that spirit of improvement has led to some of today's most commonly used services, like Master Pass. Many banks and other financial institutions have trusted MasterCard to provide quality credit cards and services to help the members to have the best experience possible.

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The Good

Large selection of cards
Rewards programs
Mobile payment options

Large Selection of Cards

MasterCard's unique place in the financial industry as a provider and not an actual issuer allows it to offer a very wide selection of options. There are several credit cards available through MasterCard, which is a great benefit to potential MasterCard customers as most financial institutions only offer two to four credit card options. With all of these options, customers can find the card that will fit their needs best and then find a financial institution that offers that specific card.

Rewards Programs

The credit cards offered by MasterCard come in a very wide selection of options. One way that issuers and customers can customize the experience that they have with their credit cards is through the rewards programs. Since there are so many different card options, customers can choose what they want out of a rewards program. Available rewards include cash back, merchandise, travel miles, hotel vouchers, and more. There are also cards that have fixed reward earning categories and others that allow the customer to earn points through any purchase.

Mobile Payment Options

A popular new form of technology throughout the financial industry is digital wallet service, which is when the customer does not have to have their credit card physically present with them at the time of purchase. Instead, they can use their mobile device loaded with all of the credit card information and software necessary to make purchases. MasterCard has taken part in this innovation and offers several digital wallet solutions to its customers. Customers can use Apple Pay, Android Pay, Microsoft Pay, or Samsung Pay in conjunction with their MasterCard credit card. The company has also developed several security measures to make this new technology even more safe and convenient to use.

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The Bad

Issuers
Consistency

Issuers

The main issue that customers will face when trying to obtain a credit card through MasterCard is that the company is not actually a credit card issuer. This means that customers cannot obtain a card through MasterCard but have to go through a separate third party financial institution, whether it be a major bank or a credit union. MasterCard only offers its credit cards to those institutions, who then offer them to customers. This can create problems if a customer is a member of a credit union that does not subscribe to MasterCard credit cards because they will either have to settle for a different card or become a member of a different institution, which can be a hassle.

Consistency

Since MasterCard credit cards are offered all across the globe by a wide variety of carriers, there is little consistency in the services offered. MasterCard has set services and products that are offered through the company itself that cannot be changed by the provider. However, the exact terms and policies used in conjunction with these credit cards are different depending on who the issuer is for the specific card. Each company does things a little differently, making it difficult for customers to keep up with how their MasterCard credit card is to be used.

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The Bottom Line

Since Mastercard is not hindered by the typical limitations of a financial institution, the company can offer an even wider selection of card options. The company's rewards programs, security features, rates, and other features span a wide range that will fit most customers' needs in some way or another. However, the downside to MasterCard credit cards is that they are issued by a variety of other financial institutions, so customers will either be limited to the card that their bank or credit union offers or they will have to become a member of the institution that does offer the card they want.

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User Reviews

Star Rating

4.6

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112 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

71%

4 grade

15%

3 grade

10%

2 grade

1 grade

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Verified Customer

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Harry ALLEN Williams Bainbridge, IN

I lower my credit card from 10,000 to 1000 because of fraudulent activity on my account. This was my idea not the card. I wanted to take my limit to 5000. They would not do it. Answer I missed too many payment. Checking on this, there were no late payments. I paid a few on line which took them a few days but their records show non late in over 36 months. Credit rating around 720, Have a loan for furnace and everything else paid off.

6 years ago

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Anoushka Ahuja Lecanto, FL

Mastercard is accepted at all the locations all around the world. On my last trip to India I called them right before my trip gave them my travel dates and I told them that they will see charges on my card from India and they made a note on my account and were very pleasant to talk to

4 years ago

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Russell Stence Rochester, NY

I have used several Mastercards over many years, and have been happy with each of them. They are accepted almost everywhere and have allowed me to conveniently make purchases at home or when traveling. They have also been convenient in terms of online and phone purchases, as well as conducting any necessary business (including paying bills) online.

4 years ago

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Steve Harris Gonzales, LA

I have 2 MasterCards. I've had both cards for a number of years and have never had a single negative issue with either card. Every time I have ever called them they have taken very good care of me. For example, one of the things I really like is their fraud department keeps close watch of my cards and contacts me when they suspect something looks out of the ordinary. It's good to know they are taking care of things.

4 years ago Edited January 24, 2022

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Zac Cannon Long Beach, MS

I have been using MasterCard since I first got a Credit Card. I have only had one issue where my card account was hacked. The customer service knocked it out before it got out of hand and made sure the funds were returned quickly. I did have to pay a small fee for the funds to get returned, but it was not anything detrimental to the account or my financials.

6 years ago

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kristin Gneiting Pleasant Grove, UT

We have the Venture One Mastercard. We received 0% introductory rate for 18 months which is longer than most introductory rates. We get unlimited 1.25 miles per dollar on every purchase we make each day. Some hotels we even get 10x the miles. This has been a trusted company for us through Capital One. I trust Mastercard and the security it gives me on all my purchases.

7 years ago

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Reese Pleasant Grove, UT

I have a MasterCard that I use for convenient purposes. They are accepted everywhere and I haven't been somewhere were I haven't been able to use it. Good interest rate that is manageable and even better if I can pay if off monthly. no annual fee, another big plus. Who hasn't had a mastercard and one time or another. They are another option of managing spending and convenience of pay.

7 years ago

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Connor Smith Palm City, FL

I have held several master card credit cards. I enjoy the cash back rewards and the attentive customer service. Also enjoy the ease of access when checking my statement and paying my bill online.

4 years ago

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Eddie Rios Ogden, UT

Having a variety of MasterCard accounts, its hard to fathom american retail life without them . They are safe to use, economical, and service is always available. I can't see going anywhere with MasterCard.

6 years ago

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Mickey Mangum Long Beach, MS

I currently have a master card debit card. It works everywhere and just like they advertise. When I call for customer service they are polite and intelligent. I would recommend this to anyone.

6 years ago

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Anne Kimball Salt Lake City, UT

We use Mastercard for our business accounts at work and it's always been easy to adjust credit limits and get new accounts set up. We've never had an issue with submitting payments.

8 years ago

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Judy Fred Narragansett, RI

You see that double circle logo of MasterCard at every store, restaurant, and online because it is the most trusted credit card around. I know I'll never be jammed up because MasterCard is accepted everywhere. The customer service is amazing, and I know I'm protected against fraud if my card is lost or stolen. I love my MasterCard(s).

4 years ago

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David Drake Shelbyville, IN

Nice to use just check the interest rate and sometimes you can get promotions will you can do it with a lower rate for so many months to help you ketchup on your bills or when you're out buying Christmas gifts or birthday gifts

4 years ago

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J. D. Maney Pensacola, FL

I have had a number of MasterCard accounts over the past 25 years, and have always been able to rely on them when I have needed to use one. They have always been up front about their policies, and I appreciate that! They rank very highly in my estimation of GREAT companies!

4 years ago

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Andrea Thomas Richland, WA

A few of our credit cards over the last couple decades have been MasterCards. They are being accepted more regularly which is great! In fact, my MC cards are typically the best in rewards! I love using them for every day purchases so I get the best rewards. No problems when talking with customer service either!

4 years ago

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Syl North Port, FL

I've been a MasterCard user for many years. It is accepted everywhere. My favorite card when I travel outside the US, because is more common in Europe continents. For security reasons, I call customer service to notify them that I will be using the card in another country and how long I will be there. The customer service is excellent.

6 years ago

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Ellen Morris Potomac, MD

I am loving my mastercard credit card through Apple! It is giving me great rewards and i love how reliable it is. I also really appreciate the no international fee mastercard offers because unlike competitors, they are widely accepted outside of the United States.

7 years ago

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Kaylee Lapinskie Foley, AL

I have been a customer for many years. Always great experiences with their customer service when we are traveling and have a card expedited due to a scratch. They are quick to notify us if they see any type of fraud issue.

4 years ago

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Khadija Kachwala London, ON

I've been using MasterCard since years now and have no complaints. Most of my cards with the company have some form of rewards or cashback available so more value for me! Keep up the good work!

4 years ago

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Jaelyn Morris Havana, FL

I have never had any problems with my MasterCard. I like that on several of my cards I can get cash back rewards with certain purchases to get discounts later. I would apply for more Mastercard credit cards if I needed them.

4 years ago

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Judith Czerniak Loveland, CO

My experience using Mastercard cards through my credit union has been positive. Fraudulent use of my card was discovered quickly and the matter cleared, without detriment to my credit.

4 years ago

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corrinna oandasan Kailua-Kona, HI

loved that it is excepted everywhere so that gives me a peace of mind when ever I use m card. if I have a concern my preference is to use the online services that seems to be the ffaster way to go

4 years ago Edited February 9, 2022

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Michael Surber Memphis, TN

I love that Mastercard can be used just about anywhere some places don't accept them but that's very few. Customer service can sometimes be a pain depending on what representative you get other than that they are a good company to go through.

4 years ago

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Mike Marino Topsham, ME

All my transactions go through smoothly, so I like that. I have never had any issues with Master Card. I watch the emails to pay the bills on time, so there is no worry about getting things done on time.

4 years ago Edited February 2, 2022

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Karen Torino Tallahassee, FL

I have had my mastercard for about 2 years and i've never had a single issue with it. The benefits are quite nice and customer service has always kindly answered any questions I had.

4 years ago

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Luke Swierczynski Waterford, MI

Although Mastercard isn't as readily taken anymore especially since the Costco/Master card relationship ended. I still find myself using them because of the great rewards I'm offered at places they're accepted.

4 years ago

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roberto arcia Columbia, MO

I've had a MasterCard for the past 6 months now. I use it to build my credit, as I feel they have good systems set in place for rewards and customer service requests. Overall, my experience has been great MasterCard.

4 years ago

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MattB American Fork, UT

Several of my favorite credit cards are Mastercards. It’s a card and company I trust. I feel they value their cardholders and are committed to great customer service and reliability.

6 years ago

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Michelle Schow Saratoga Springs, UT

MasterCard is accepted at most stores and I’ve even used it internationally (just make sure to call and notify them if you are traveling so your card doesn’t get blocked).

6 years ago

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Rischelle Mikkelson American Fork, UT

We have a Capital One MasterCard and it is our credit card of choice. It is accepted everywhere we go. It is easy to use for travel, even International travel. I like their additional protection and services against fraud.

7 years ago

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Rushie Gregory Pleasant Grove, UT

My work uses MasterCard for our pay cards and I've only had good experiences with them. It's helpful that it's not a super long process to access card settings, and it's a secure system.

7 years ago

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nathan brewer Lehi, UT

My credit card provider just switched to MasterCard and I was very worried it wouldn't be as easy to use as my last card. I have found it just as easy to use and have not been denied anywhere I have tried it.

7 years ago

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L. Fowler Pleasant Grove, UT

I use my MasterCard for purchases at a clothing store that gives me cash back if I use it. I live that fact that purchases I would normally make are giving me gift cards to purchase things from their store.

8 years ago

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shirell West Haven, CT

i can use it anywhere and it doesnt subract what i dont have so im not charged later for having not enough funds awesomeeeee

4 years ago

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Jerry Klepadlo Brentwood, NY

I fly very often. Gaining points and converting those points to free flights is amazing and saves my family a lot of money.

9 years ago

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James Richards Las Vegas, NV

Never have any problems with my card except for today. Working it out always works never have my money late added to my card. Customer service is awesome.

4 years ago

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Sheryl S. Toronto, ON

While I appreciate that Mastercard is accepted almost everywhere, including Costco, I am annoyed that Costco purchases only every qualify for the lowest reward points on every Mastercard reward card. It is very surprising that the Costco Mastercard is no different.It is my understanding that this is because of the way Mastercard categorizes Costco and not the way the rewards programs are structured.

4 years ago

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Kara Wain Bonifay, FL

MasterCard allowed me to open a credit card easily and helps me keep track of my score and balances. Any issues I had were quickly helped and dealt with from employees.

4 years ago

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Trisha Ross Shelby, MI

My husband and I Mastercard with our credit union and had never had any issues with it. I lost it once and they cancelled it in a timely manner. Wonderful Customer Service.

4 years ago Edited March 2, 2022

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Vy Ha Tallahassee, FL

Very convenient to transfer money back and forth to and from my account. The bank also made it a point to not charge me for tra as actions I did not authorize and I got it fixed in a timely manner

4 years ago

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Ron Thurgood Denver, CO

This is a target mastercard. I like the 5% discount on purchases in store. I don't tend to use this card outside of store except for some reoccurring payments to some vendors.

4 years ago

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Moses F. Chandler, AZ

MasterCard is a trusted name throughout the world. I have full confidence in their services and customer support. I use the card & services with great satisfaction.

4 years ago Edited January 21, 2022

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letsgogreen12 Macomb, MI

I keep a Mastercard in my wallet for emergency purposes because Mastercard is widely accepted around the world. I like knowing I have back up support if needed.

4 years ago

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Richard Cunningham Sandys Parish, SA

As with any credit card - they provide a good service in terms of what I've used them for. I havent had much interaction with the service team but the rate is good and its easy to pay the monthly bill. I would recommend.

4 years ago

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Benjamin LeBlanc Dallas, TX

I couldn’t be more satisfied with my experience with Master Card enough. I’ve lost my card several times and each time their customer service has been outstanding.

6 years ago

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Virginia Rosenthal Pleasant Grove, UT

I use my MasterCard credit card for my health savings account. I've never had any major issues with the card. There was one time it didn't work so I called customer service and go the issue quickly resolved.

7 years ago

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Larson Riverton, UT

We have had MasterCard for a few months now and it seems like they’ve struggled getting things correct. I’ve had to spend a lot of time working out mistakes.

6 years ago

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Kyshah Bagley Columbus, OH

They are not for everybody. I have one and I was trying to get some money out the atm and they took my money I I have never received it back. It’s been exactly a year as of tomorrow.

4 years ago

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Mary Daniels Westland, MI

My PayPal is through MasterCard. Some have complained about the service but I haven’t personally experienced anything to question my trust in their service.

4 years ago

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Dwayne Holland Toney, AL

Well Mastercard probably had better perks overall than visa. I've had only confidence in using Mastercard all over the place

4 years ago