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MasterCard

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206 User Reviews

6.8

Overall Score

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LAST UPDATED: March 28th, 2023

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

4.5

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206 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

65%

4 grade

22%

3 grade

8%

2 grade

2%

1 grade

2%

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Kristi Rice Huntsville, AL

I enjoy the rewards that come with my MasterCard. They are easy to redeem and offer a variety of ways to use the points. The customer service is also very knowledgeable and was able to share travel insurance benefits with me that I was not aware were available. It ended up saving me a couple hundred dollars.

1 week ago

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Rafael Matthew Jamaica Plain, MA

I've been using a Mastercard credit card for years now and can confidently say that it's one of the best out there. The customer service is top-notch and their rewards program is amazing. My transactions are always secure and I never have to worry about fraud or theft. Most importantly, they offer competitive rates and fees that make using this card all the more worth it.

3 weeks ago

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Elena Saint Augustine, FL

I'd say between MasterCard and Visa, these two are still the most recognized in credit card brands, and I've been happy with having both. MasterCard generally has good customer service (their mobile app is one of the easiest to navigate) and a good range of products to choose from.

3 weeks ago Edited March 8, 2023

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David Garrett Bloomington, IN

I've had a MasterCard Debit Card from the IUCU since they first offered it. As I recall, the Credit Union and MasterCard have both been very helpful in resolving any scam issues, which have been very few. It's very convenient having this debit card - I love it!

3 weeks ago

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Sheila Burns Dickson, TN

Mastercard is another name that everyone will accept. I have been using Mastercard for many years and have always been satisfied.

1 day ago

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Bonnie Hernandez Philadelphia, PA

I have always had a great experience being a mastercard holder. Easily accepted everywhere for anything. My intrest rates on the catds are reasonable and its a company I feel I can trust with my credit needs.

3 weeks ago

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Ricardo Ortiz Fredericksburg, VA

This is one or the best companies to have as a credit card with. Excellent customer service, low interest rates.

5 days ago

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Don Thigpen Kansas City, MO

MasterCard is good as I have many cards and they are accepted everywhere almost. However, APPLIED CARD BANK is absolute worst. You pay it off every month and they still charge high interest. Avoid this product from that bank.

1 month ago Edited February 9, 2023

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Erick Benjamin Perez (Insurance Doctor) Hollywood, FL

My MC is decent but I feel that they should have more rewards depending on what the person intends on using it. I like the customer service and the security measures that it offers. Also, that it is accepted in most places is wonderful.

1 month ago

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larry

A good credit card that can be used anywhere but as with most credit cards the rates are high and it is best to pay them off each month

1 month ago Edited February 14, 2023

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RONALD J BOLLINGER Minneapolis, MN

Has to be one of my goto companies. Been around for a long time and very trusted. Very nice customer service, helpful and polite. Will help you with whatever the problem or questions about it you might have.

2 months ago

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China Mike Clinton, ME

And very good company and they take care of their customers. And can't complain. Never had a problem with them and they're there every time I've needed them. They've been by my side to help. Keep up the good work and thank you

2 months ago

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Fraybert “Fray” Orsak San Antonio, TX

Great experience. They help anyway they can when there is a problem.

4 days ago

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Dellise Lauderdale Louisville, KY

This card is good if you have bad credit but it will help you if you know how to use it to build your credit back so that you can get a better card with nicer interest rates.

1 month ago

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Life of Frog South Bend, IN

Have several Mastercards and they are accepted everywhere, haven't had any problems paying at any store or service. Customer service fixes any mistakes and watches for fraud for us.

5 months ago

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Jeff Barton Layton, UT

MasterCard is a wide variety of things. There are many cards I use now that have the Master Card Brand. I wasn't sure if I'd like them or be able to use them at all the same places as Visa when I got my first Master Card but they're awesome. You can use a MasterCard everywhere now so it has become my back pocket best friend.

5 months ago Edited October 13, 2022

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Tabitha Norman Norwalk, OH

Love that after so long they up your credit amount and it helps build ur credit. The apr isn't as high as some cards. I love that you can use it anywhere. Wish that if you need to take money out from an atm it was free or didn't cost so much to transfer.

5 months ago

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Alyssa Hicks Springfield, MO

Overall it's all right never had any issues with MasterCard but still would prefer Visa because everywhere takes visa.

4 weeks ago

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valarie viarengo Covington, GA

I have mastercard on all my banking cards and it is avaliable at most locations. I have found service is alway good.

1 month ago

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Matt Martin Sacramento, CA

Credit cards given when credit was otherwise difficult to obtain is appreciated especially now when the credit rating is rising and that helps interest rates go down

2 months ago

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Who Knows

MasterCard had been one of the better credit card companies I've had. I will say that given the rough situation I was in they did better then most helping rectify my issue. Would absolutely recommend

4 months ago

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Debra Howard Phoenix, AZ

It's a credit or debit card. I use mostly debit. I have a hard time using it at discount stores (dollar/99 cents). My charges get flagged/blocked and payment won't go through. I get humiliated,embarrassed and frustrated especially if I desperately need the items. I then have to call my bank, and Mastercard to find out why my Mastercard was declined. Waste of my time and effort. What's with the fee to use the card at certain retail stores,?

5 months ago

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Sandy Deonarine Port Saint Lucie, FL

I’ve been with Mastercard company for a mighty long time I love that their security system for fraud is reliable their phone wait time is acceptable and I get points on every purchase I feel comfortable using Mastercard

5 months ago

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Jane Kelley Topeka, KS

I've had MasterCard through Direct Express for almost 10 years. It's been reliable and accurate. Transactions were posted very quickly. And access to list of transactions is excellent

5 months ago

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Lauren San Antonio, TX

Great credit card with a lot of benefits that we use and look for when selecting a card. The customer service is fantastic. One time I had a question about possible fraud and the MasterCard team answered all my questions and took care of the fraudulent change for me quickly.

7 months ago Edited November 30, 2022

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Jenny Hite Kansas City, MO

I have used Master Card in the past and have started using it again. I re-started with a promotional for transfer from any other card with no fee, other than a % of the transfer amount. It feels great to finally see my credit debt shrinking!

7 months 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.

11 months ago

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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.

2 years ago

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Gumby Rowland Heights, CA

I dont use MasterCard as much as other cards as sometimes I have had merchants not accept it like they do, say visa. But overall the company has good customer service and I have never had an issue that could not be resolved.

4 months ago

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a j Roswell, GA

It's nice to know I can use MasterCard instead of cash. I know that if I have any issues with my purchases they will assist me in fixing the issue. Customer service is great!

5 months ago

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J B

I’ve had a Mastercard for many years. The interest rate is kind of high considering my credit score is 840. I get points for purchases that can be used to get gift cards. The customer service is good. Disputes for unauthorized charges or fraudulent use are dealt with in a timely fashion.

7 months 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

1 year ago

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kevin bowling Pikeville, KY

They have always been helpful when trying to get information.would recommend to others

4 weeks ago Edited March 1, 2023

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Jnt_421 Bethel Park, PA

I have an account with MC and I am pleased with my account and my service. I have not had much, if any, interaction with customer service since opening the account, but that's a good thing because I haven't had the need to contact customer service. MC is a good card to have and most places accept MC.

9 months 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).

11 months 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

11 months ago

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Wendell OR

I have a MasterCard it works everywhere just like a Master Card should.

1 month ago

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gar greiner Colorado Springs, CO

We like this card and it's accepted everywhere.safe, secure.thanks

1 month ago

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Jeffrey W Bryson Columbus, OH

My Mastercard is Great through my bank keeps my budget on track

1 month 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.

1 year 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.

3 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.

3 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.

3 years ago

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lyn riley Grand Rapids, MI

great to have lower the rates and stop with all the yearly fees because we pay enough in interest, and it will be perfect

3 months ago Edited December 14, 2022

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Gabe Dominiczak

Love using mastercard and paying them off every month. The rewards and cash back makes it worth having!

3 months ago

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Diogenes DeFawkes Warner Robins, GA

I received a prepaid master card through through T-Mobile for getting the the 5G Internet. I couldn't use it anywhere, comma and finally transferred it to my bank account.. That took several attempts and a call to customer service to accomplish.

5 months ago

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Mary Ellen Lee Gilbert, AZ

I love my MasterCard! We get a lot of benefits, the customer service is great, and they are so proactive with suspicious activity. We have no complaints!

6 months ago

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Rick Gore Canton, GA

Great card when you are either just starting out on credit, or rebuilding credit. I have had multiple MasterCards and have always found their customer service to be quite good. The best part is they are accepted everywhere.

7 months ago Edited November 8, 2022

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Patsy Mann Alexander City, AL

Have gotten great service with them. Staff is always very helpful, friendly, respectful of my problems always ready to go to all lengths to help me. Very understanding when problems occur.

7 months 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.

1 year ago

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