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7.3

Overall Score

LAST UPDATED: March 26th, 2024

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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Star Rating

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4.7

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358 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

70%

4 grade

20%

3 grade

7%

2 grade

2%

1 grade

1%

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Stephanie Bloniarz

I have been a consumer of MasterCard for many years. I appreciate the fact that MC is accepted everywhere I shop, even when I travel out of the country. I always feel safe and secure using my MasterCard. A++++++++++++++

3 days ago

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Nora Mosley

I have always used mastercard as my card services and I have not had any issues with them. I have used mastercard for almost 30 years and I am very satisfied. Using mastercard gives me the flexibility in knowing that I will not have any issues when I travel. I have had identity theft in the past and they helped me in getting fraud alerts set up, I was not liable for charges that I did not make and I was given a new card with no issues.

1 day ago

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Deanna Lunceford Siecinski Bolivar, MO

I use a Mastercard debit card and have always had good service. If it looks like someone may be trying to hack into it they contact me and take care of it on their end and if need be give me a new card. This has happen a couple of times and I was pleased at how well they took care of it. I am an older person and sometimes I don’t understand something and they will help with that.

1 week ago

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Life Champ

Today update (march 25)made the app almost unusable, most of the reception area don’t appear listed in the app, nearest airport feature doesn’t work! Although they are fast and reliable sometimes so I will rate them 3star and please endeavor to fix things up.

2 days ago

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Isiah Bullock

MasterCard's network reliability is commendable. I've never had issues using my MasterCard for transactions, whether online or in-person. The cardholder benefits, including purchase protection and travel insurance, provide peace of mind. The customer service team is also helpful and responsive to inquiries. Overall, MasterCard is a trusted payment solution that I rely on for its security and convenience.

1 month ago

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atokoose taiwo boluwatiwi Lagos, LA

Ohh Mastercard, This company is a real life saver I mean in terms of financial transactions of course. I am able to make transactions an where in the world and still be able to render my Mastercard debit card and it would be accepted at anytime. Linking up my payment with online sales or website is just so easy and direct. And also the most important part which I love the most is that, when I have transaction errors and I some situations, even the cash was already debited from me, within minutes even before I place a complaint ticket, the transaction would have been resolved and my money would have been reversed back to my account.

2 months ago

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Joe Byrd Cincinnati, OH

I have use MasterCard for all of my purchases. The customer service is outstanding. I would recommend using MasterCard to all of my friends and relatives.

1 week ago

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Sharon Las Vegas, NV

Edward Jones Mastercard offers some great benefits to its customers such as loyalty points, balance transfer promotions, and online shopping events to list a few. Their customer service team provides an excellent customer experience.

2 months ago

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Hank Ricardo Winnipeg, MB

I have many credit cards but none other compares to my master card. I've had it since is was 18. I've had a few problems with it, but customer service was on top it . I'm very pleased with my master card. Never leave home with out it .

1 month ago

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Liam steiner Cedar Knolls, NJ

Mastercard is very simple, high perceived safety level and constant improvement. It has helped me protect myself from risk of online fraud and simplified my checkout process because I can easily make transactions without interface.

1 month ago

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Amani Patel York, PA

Very good credit card company! I have relied on my MasterCard for quite some time and it is always a trustworthy card and company. Would definitely utilize MasterCards services in the future.

1 month ago

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Kanyin Esther

What I like about mastercard is the real time payment in additionally I appreciate their website and their customer service that answers my question on their dashboard matercard made me worry less for paying for all my bills online

2 months ago

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Clar lau

Paying both online and offline bills using Mastercard is very quick, reloadable Mastercard are easy to top up on the account balance then prepaid Mastercard gift card can be sent to friends for paying online services though ATM withdrawal is not supported.

2 months ago

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Samantha Madero-Craven

Mastercard has been a reliable choice for my financial transactions. Its acceptance worldwide ensures hassle-free payments whether I'm traveling or shopping online. The security features, like advanced chip technology, provide a sense of security. While it doesn't offer the same level of rewards as some other cards, its consistent performance and wide acceptance make it a solid, dependable payment option.

3 months ago

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Arooj Naeem Washington, DC

Mastercard has been a reliable and widely accepted choice for my financial transactions. The global acceptance and security features provide peace of mind during purchases. While specific benefits may vary depending on the issuing bank, the overall convenience, and the variety of available cards make Mastercard a preferred option for managing my financial transactions.

3 months ago

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shelia stromatt Thaxton, MS

They were so helpful and so nice. I give them 100 . I believe they are the best company to do business with. I would ask everyone that gets help to go with them because they work with you in every way they can. I know that if I go with anyone else that I wouldn't get the attention that they gave me.

3 months ago

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Gregory Thompson

My MasterCard is utilized through Wells Fargo. I recently went through some very difficult financial times, and MasterCard and Wells Fargo were very thorough and professional, and helping me to rectify the situations and get back on track

3 months ago

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Mark Sanford Comfort, TX

I have been a customer of the MasterCard "family" over the last 50+ years and been very pleased. My most recent call to MasterCard was concerning an order I had placed that, when asked by MasterCard if it was a "legitimate" purchase, I accidently confirmed "No". I called right away to let them know I had "messed up" in not accepting. They were happy to hear from you and immediately looked into the situation. They also informed me that the company I was attempting to purchase an item from was suspicious as a scam. I rethought the purchase, thanked them, and decided to take their advice and Not purchase the item. Assumed they were more "in the know" about this than me since this was a company unfamiliar to me. I'm thankful they were there for me.

7 months ago

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Kalume Ibrahim Miami, FL

This is the best payment method I have ever used in transactions without fear because it's secure and quick.

3 weeks ago

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Stephanie M. Oceanside, CA

I had an issue with possible fraud about a year ago. MC was easy to get a hold of they listened. They took care of the issue within a timely manner.

1 month ago Edited February 20, 2024

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Otim Jordan Kampala, 102

It's easy to add Mastercard credit or debit card on Paypal wallet, google wallet and Apple wallet. I use prepaid Mastercard credit card for paying bills.

2 months ago

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Joseph Faenza Washington, DC

I really like having a MasterCard credit card in my wallet because I know most places that I go to I will be able to use it for whatever purchases I am looking to make. Also if you were a well qualified borrower, I have found that their interest rates are very good.

7 months ago Edited August 7, 2023

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Jennifer Costa

Good card and convenient website. Easily accepted by mostly all businesses.

5 days ago

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mary martin Bossier City, LA

I have a few MasterCard credit cards and I could not be happier with them. They do offer cash back rewards and discounts at different merchants and retailers, that I use often, which is great! Their customer service cannot better! Way to go!

4 months ago Edited November 20, 2023

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Michelle Thomas Anaheim, CA

MasterCard a great card company. They are my main banking debit provider and I just love that when I need help their customer service team is knowledgeable and attentive to a resolution that benefits me more than them. Awesome job!

4 months ago

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Nettie Ranel Ball, LA

Americor representative was very kind. She was patient and explained information with clarity. I am grateful for the support and opportunity to get a loan to cover my debt. I left the call with confidence that am on the journey to financial recovery. Kind regards, Nettie Louisiana

4 months ago

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Kelsey T.L. Lansing, MI

Mastercard is accepted worldwide, it offers security, convenience, and a range of card options to suit various needs. With Mastercard, I've experienced seamless transactions and peace of mind. Five stars for a dependable financial partner.

4 months ago

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Kelsey Conner Wilmington, NC

MasterCard was my first ever debit card and I still use it to this day! It's an old faithful, and they honestly have excellent customer service the times that I have needed it. It's a plus that all stores accept it as well, which I've not found with other companies such as Amex and Discover.

5 months ago

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Alexandra Federov Rochester, NY

Master Card gives me great cash back. I got over $22 cash back last month alone for my utility bill payments. I also get good cash back on a few online merchants where I shop regularly. It goes right into my paypal account. No other card comes close to that.

5 months ago

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Kevin Ortiz

MasterCard is synonymous with credit cards for a reason. Reliability, he’s of use and acceptability all around are a few of the reasons that they have been able to distinguish himself from the pack. I have not been to a business where they do not accept Mastercard as a payment method. I believe one of the areas they have not evolved is in the features and the cashback offerings. Many of its competitors are way ahead of the curve in terms of the offerings of cash back and rewards or travel points. Also the website and app design or not updated. Ask the rest of their competitors

9 months ago

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Russ Hamstring Lake Havasu City, AZ

My cards always work as they should. I never had an issue at all and Master Card is taken anywhere cards are taken. The rates are very fair and I would recommend using a Master Card for anyone. I never have a yearly payment which is nice and the many perks you get as a holder is expansive. If you never read the perks you get with credit cards, you should because there is a lot of useful things there.

6 months ago Edited September 11, 2023

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Sherran Nutson Atlanta, GA

I am/have been a MasterCard customer for more than 25 years. MasterCard has come a long way and is now being accepted more than it was a few years ago. Like my other credit cards, Mastercard provides me with financial freedom and financial, educational tools on how to make my money work for me. Whenever I call customer service about investment options, they take time to explain the in/out of each investment tool. The customer service reps are always professional, unrushed and willing to go above and beyond the normal chat.

8 months ago Edited July 17, 2023

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OUR REVIEW Bellaire, MI

OUR MASTER CARD THROUGH CHASE BANK IS THE "BEST. it pays well with points and their customer service is GREAT.

1 month ago

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Thomas Cantrell Albany, GA

Credit Limits are in line with Credit Score. Cash back on gas and groceries are very helpful and fair.

1 month ago

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Tyrone Walton Atlanta, GA

From m the start Mastercard still reign supreme in certain parts of the world where visa is not accepted. This has saved me countless times abroad. Rates are awesome and the card online data is user friendly.

5 months ago

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Allen Carlson Lehi, UT

My mastercard is awesome. I receive 1, 2, or 3% cash back depending on what category I choose. I am able to select a new category every 30 days too. This is tied to a bank of america account and their app is great and it's easy to pay off my card.

7 months ago

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michael gordon Vinton, VA

Exceptional service. Needed to get reimbursed from a cruise line. Bought tickets and insurance through Mastercard and they reimbursed me after I tried going through the cruise line and waiting eight weeks for reimbursement, with no response.

8 months ago

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Sandy Carnegie, PA

I use my Mastercard on a daily basis. I like knowing that I am dealing with a reputable company. I also like the fact that there are useful benefits that come along with this card; some of which I wasn’t aware of until recently.

8 months ago

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Nankya Joseph

Mastercard makes online product purchasing easy because it's world accepted method of payment.

2 weeks ago

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Candice S Milan, TN

Great card and customer service. The incentives are great and app is easy to navigate.

1 month ago

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Maria Feliciano

I’ve been using MC over the last 30 years, my loyal friend, always available . Great APY /APR % Excellent customer service

3 months ago

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Janery Astacio-Marrero

One of the aspects I appreciate the most is the robust security measures in place. I feel confident in the safety of my transactions.

3 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.

3 years ago

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Derwin Courtney Glen Allen, VA

I have a mc credit card I use it most every where I go. Never had a problem with them. They protect my card from spammers I highly recommend Master Card

4 months ago

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Guy Honolulu, HI

Had Mastercard before USAA a switched to visa Was very happy with it and was accepted at a lot of places Had no trouble when I used it in other countries

5 months ago

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Brian Wamboga Chicago, IL

Less charges on every transaction I make and therefore there are convenient.

1 week ago Edited March 15, 2024

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TC B Florissant, CO

Second most recognized credit card in the world with Visa being first. No complaints with this card. I like Mastercard....maybe because Visa is so common, I purposely choose MC if I can from a company/bank.

7 months ago Edited August 11, 2023

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Tracee Guercy

I love Mastercard because it is accepted almost everywhere! Love that convenience. I feel safe shopping with my Mastercard abroad and I can monitor my purchases easily. Very responsive if your card is lost or stolen.

8 months ago

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Amanda George IL

I have had a Mastercard credit card. They give you a fair credit limit when you start but it is hard to get credit increases and it's hard to get a hold of a customer service person when you call, it's all automated machines and robots. They also sell your information to third party companies and you get overwhelmed with spam mail and calls. No thanks.

8 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

2 years ago