Credit card companies, like most other things in life, come in all shapes and sizes.
Some are titans of the industry, spending upwards of $200 million per year to blare commercials 24/7 on every medium known to man. Others lack any kind of name recognition — outside of their employees, and, presumably, a handful of customers.
You don’t want to entrust your financial future to just any credit card company. So, if you’re looking to get a new credit card, where do you even start?
Below we list the 15 largest credit card companies (as measured by the number of cards in circulation), along with links to their top credit cards, credit score requirements, and where to apply.
1. Visa — 312M Cards in Circulation
Visa is the largest major payment network, widely accepted by over 40M merchants. From traditional benefits to premium rewards, Visa offers a wide range of benefits for cardholders around the world.
- $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
- Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
- If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
- No annual fee and no expiration on rewards.
- 0% Introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 17.99% - 27.99% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee applies to all balance transfers.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases
|
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
|
17.99% - 27.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
|
$0
|
Excellent/Good
|
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, and 2x on all other travel purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
- Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
- Member FDIC
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
21.24% - 28.24% Variable
|
$95
|
Good/Excellent
|
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
- Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel
- 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
- Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
21.74% - 28.74% Variable
|
$550
|
Good/Excellent
|
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 500 to 850
- Average: 675
- Translation: Can have anywhere from poor to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-847-2911
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/visa/
2. Mastercard — 266M Cards in Circulation
The second-largest major credit card network in the United States, Mastercard offers perks like easy bill pay and zero-liability fraud protection. Mastercard processes transactions in over 210 countries and territories, and in more than 150 currencies.
- Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $1,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
- Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
- No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% for 15 months
|
0% for 15 months
|
19.74% - 29.74% (Variable)
|
$0
|
Excellent, Good
|
- Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
- No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% for 15 months
|
0% for 15 months
|
19.74% - 29.74% (Variable)
|
$0
|
Excellent, Good
|
- Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024. - Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
- Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
- Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
- 60,000 ThankYou® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
- No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
20.99% - 28.99%(Variable)
|
$95
|
Excellent, Good
|
Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 550 to 850
- Average: 750
- Translation: Options for consumers with bad to excellent credit available
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-307-7309
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/mastercard/
3. Chase — 149M Cards in Circulation
Chase is the largest issuer of general-purpose credit cards in the U.S. With rewards from companies like Disney and Southwest Airlines, Chase boasts high customer satisfaction for its credit cards. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is often regarded as the best travel card.
- INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
- Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
- After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
- No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
- Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49%.
- No annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
|
0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
|
19.74% - 28.49% Variable
|
$0
|
Good/Excellent
|
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
- Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel
- 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
- Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
21.74% - 28.74% Variable
|
$550
|
Good/Excellent
|
- Start off strong with 0% Intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers. A variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49% on balance transfers and purchases after the introductory period ends.
- Lower your interest rate by 2% each year. Automatically be considered for an APR reduction when you pay on time, and spend at least $1000 on your card by your next account anniversary.
- Raise your credit limit. Get an automatic, one-time review for a higher credit limit when you pay on time, and spend $500 in your first six months.
- All for no annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Slate Edge℠ card
- Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR on Purchases 18 months
|
0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 18 months
|
19.74% - 28.49% Variable
|
$0
|
Good/Excellent
|
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 616 to 850
- Average: 718
- Translation: Must have fair to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-432-3117
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/chase/
4. Capital One — 107M Cards in Circulation
Whether your credit score is excellent or poor, Capital One has a credit card for you. With 24/7 customer service and free credit scores via CreditWise, Capital One provides premium benefits and invaluable tools for all its cardholders.
- Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- Enjoy two complimentary visits per year to Capital One Lounges or to 100+ Plaza Premium Lounges through the Partner Lounge Network
- Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
20.74% - 28.74% (Variable)
|
$95
|
Excellent, Good
|
- Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
- No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% for 15 months
|
0% for 15 months
|
19.74% - 29.74% (Variable)
|
$0
|
Excellent, Good
|
- Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Receive up to $300 back annually as statement credits for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of options
- Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
- Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
- Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
21.74% - 28.74% (Variable)
|
$395
|
Excellent
|
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: No score to 850
- Average: 717
- Translation: Can have anywhere from poor to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-227-4825
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/capital-one/
5. Synchrony Financial — 70M Cards in Circulation
Synchrony Financial is a major issuer of Mastercard and Visa credit cards. Synchrony offers a wide variety of co-branded retail credit cards suitable for a range of credit types.
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 300 to 850
- Average: 630
- Translation: Can have poor credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1 (866) 419-4096
- Online: https://www.mysynchrony.com/
6. Citibank — 68M Cards in Circulation
Citibank is a major banking institution for customers of all credit standings. Citi cards have two primary rewards programs available: Cash back and ThankYou® Points. The CitiManager® online tool helps its members manage multiple accounts.
- Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024. - Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
- Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
- Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
- 60,000 ThankYou® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
- No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
20.99% - 28.99%(Variable)
|
$95
|
Excellent, Good
|
Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.
- Discover one of Citi's best cash back rewards cards designed exclusively for Costco members
- 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
- 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
- Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
20.24% (Variable)
|
$0
|
Excellent
|
Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.
- Discover the only business credit card designed exclusively for Costco members
- 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
- 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
- Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
- Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
20.24% (Variable)
|
$0
|
Excellent
|
Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 550 to 850
- Average: 750
- Translation: Must have fair to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-347-4934
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/citi/
7. Discover — 61M Cards in Circulation
Discover has numerous promotional offers on its credit cards, including cash back, miles, and 0% intro APRs. Dependable fraud protection keeps customers safe while they spend. Applying for a Discover card is easy, and you’ll find they have good offerings for students and businesses alike.
- INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
- Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
- Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
- Every $1 you earn in cash back is $1 you can redeem.
- Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 16.99% to 27.99% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- No annual fee.
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR for 15 months
|
0% Intro APR for 15 months
|
16.99% - 27.99% Variable APR
|
$0
|
Excellent/Good
|
- INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
- Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
- Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
- Every $1 you earn in cash back is $1 you can redeem.
- No annual fee.
- Click through to Discover’s website to see terms and conditions.
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR for 6 months
|
0% Intro APR for 18 months
|
16.99% - 27.99% Variable APR
|
$0
|
Excellent/Good
|
- UNLIMITED BONUS: Only Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. For example, if you earn 35,000 Miles, you get 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.
- Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase - with no annual fee.
- Redeem Miles to pay any part of your monthly bill, including your minimum payment.
- Turn Miles into cash in any amount, any time. Or redeem as a statement credit for travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more with no blackout dates. However you redeem, Miles keep the same value. And Miles never expire.
- 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 16.99% - 27.99% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
- Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR for 15 months
|
0% Intro APR for 15 months
|
16.99% - 27.99% Variable APR
|
$0
|
Excellent/Good
|
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 670 to 850
- Average: 733
- Translation: Can have good to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-DISCOVER (347-2683)
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/discover/
8. Bank of America — 55M Cards in Circulation
Founded in 1904, Bank of America began as the “Bank of Italy,” serving America’s expanding immigrant population. Bank of America re-branded itself in 1930 and created the first general-use credit card. Today it is among the world’s leading financial brands.
- $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
- Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
- If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
- No annual fee and no expiration on rewards.
- 0% Introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 17.99% - 27.99% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee applies to all balance transfers.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases
|
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
|
17.99% - 27.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
|
$0
|
Excellent/Good
|
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
- Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire.
- 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
- Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
- Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
- 0% Introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 17.99% - 27.99% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee applies to all balance transfers.
- If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases
|
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
|
17.99% - 27.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
|
$0
|
Excellent/Good
|
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
- $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
- If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 1.87%-2.62% cash back on every purchase with Preferred Rewards.
- No annual fee.
- No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn and cash rewards don’t expire.
- 0% Introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 17.99% - 27.99% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee applies to all balance transfers.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases
|
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days
|
17.99% - 27.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
|
$0
|
Excellent/Good
|
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 500 to 850
- Average: 744
- Translation: Can have poor to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-732-9194
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/bank-of-america/
9. American Express — 48M Cards in Circulation
Also known as “AMEX,” American Express is active in over 160 different countries and territories. It processed over $1 trillion in purchase volume in 2022, just behind Chase. AMEX primarily accepts high-income cardholders with good to excellent credit scores.
- Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you use your new card to make $6,000 in purchases in your first 6 months of Card Membership
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points for flights booked directly through airlines or American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. Also earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
- $200 annual hotel credit, $200 annual airline fee credit, $25 monthly Equinox credit, $15 monthly Uber cash credit, $50 bi-annual Saks Fifth Avenue credit, and more.
- Platinum Card Members have unlimited complimentary access to all locations of The Global Lounge Collection, including 1,400 airport lounges across 650 cities.
- Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status and Hilton Honors Gold Status. Enrollment required.
- Choose among three card designs
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
20.49% – 27.49% Pay Over Time
|
$695
|
Excellent
|
- Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on purchases on your new card in your first 6 months of card membership
- Earn 4X Points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases. Also earn 4X Points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery, and 3X points on flights when booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. All other eligible purchases earn 1X point.
- No foreign transaction fees
- Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub, Seamless, Boxed and other participating partners. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
- Delight your senses when you book The Hotel Collection with American Express Travel. Get a $100 experience credit to use during your stay. A minimum 2-night stay is required.
- $250 Annual Fee
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
20.49% – 28.49% Pay Over Time
|
$250
|
Excellent
|
- Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of card membership
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, 1.5X points on business categories and purchases of $5,000 or more on up to $2 million per calendar year, and 1X point for each dollar you spend on other purchases.
- Get up to $400 back per year toward U.S. purchases with Dell Technologies, up to $360 back per year for purchases with Indeed, and $120 back per year for wireless telephone service purchases on the Business Platinum Card, plus additional credits. Enrollment is required for all.
- Access to more than 1,400 lounges across 140 countries and counting with the American Express Global Lounge Collection®
- Use Membership Rewards® Pay with Points for all or part of an eligible fare and get 35% of those points back, up to 1,000,000 points back per calendar year
- $695 Annual Fee
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
18.74% – 26.74% Pay Over Time
|
$695
|
Excellent
|
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 623 to 850
- Average: 733
- Translation: Must have good to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-297-3276
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/american-express/
10. Wells Fargo — 23M Cards in Circulation
Wells Fargo is one of the oldest financial institutions in America. Wells Fargo credit cards provide competitive offers and diverse financial assistance to suit cardholders of all types. About 1 in 3 American households trust this brand with their personal finances.
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 620 to 850
- Average: 750
- Translation: Must have good to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-642-4720
- Online: https://www.cardrates.com/reviews/wells-fargo/
11. U.S. Bank — 22M Cards in Circulation
U.S. Bank offers credit cards for rebuilding credit for first-timers, students, small businesses, and the general populace. U.S. Bank has many beneficial credit cards that you can easily browse through online.
- Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in the first 90 days of account opening. That’s a $200 value redeemable toward merchandise, gift cards, cash back, travel, and more. Points never expire.
- Earn 4X points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery
- Earn 2X points at grocery stores, grocery delivery, streaming services, gas stations, and EV charging stations — all other purchases earn 1 point per $1
- Enjoy a 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR applies
- $15 credit for annual streaming service purchases such as Netflix, Apple TV, Spotify, and more.
- $0 Annual Fee
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% for 12 billing cycles
|
0% for 12 billing cycles
|
19.49% – 28.49% (Variable)
|
$0
|
Good/Excellent
|
- For a limited time, get a special 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles. After that, the APR is variable.
- Enjoy Cellphone Protection Coverage of up to $600 annually when you pay your monthly cellphone bill with your card
- View your credit score anytime, anywhere in the mobile app or online banking. It’s easy to enroll, easy to use, and free to U.S. Bank customers.
- Fraud Protection detects and notifies you of any unusual card activity to help prevent fraud
- Choose your payment due date
- $0 Annual Fee
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
0% for 18 billing cycles
|
0% for 18 billing cycles
|
19.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
|
$0
|
Excellent Credit
|
- Earn unlimited cash back while building credit for the future. Start with a security deposit of $300 to $5,000.
- Earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter in two categories you choose, 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel, and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Travel Center, 2% back on eligible purchases in your choice of one everyday category (like gas stations and EV charging stations, grocery stores and restaurants), and 1% back on all other eligible purchases.
- Use your card everywhere Visa is accepted. Your secured card works and looks like any other credit card.
- Choose your payment due date and enjoy zero fraud liability for unauthorized transactions.
- No annual fee
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
29.49% Variable
|
$0
|
None/Bad
|
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 600 to 850
- Average: 725
- Translation: Can have anywhere from poor to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-947-1444
- Online: https://www.usbank.com/credit-cards/index.html
12. Barclays US — 11.5M Cards in Circulation
Barclays is a reliable option for responsible borrowers in good credit standing. Established in 2004, Barclays is known for its co-branded credit cards in partnership with well-known travel, entertainment, retail, educational, and financial institutions.
- Earn 10,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days
- Earn 3X points on eligible JetBlue purchases, 2X points at restaurants and grocery stores, and 1X points on all other purchases
- Enjoy 50% inflight savings on cocktails and food purchases
- 0% introductory APR for the first 12 billing cycles following each balance transfer that posts to your account within 45 days of account opening (transfer fee applies), then a variable APR applies
- No foreign transaction fees, no blackout dates, and points never expire
- $0 Annual Fee
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
0% for 12 billing cycles
|
20.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49%, based on credit
|
$0
|
Good
|
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 90 days. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 bonus points when a purchase is made on an employee card.
- Earn 6X points on eligible JetBlue purchases, plus 2X points at restaurants and office supply stores, 1X points on all other purchases
- Earn 5,000 bonus points every year after your account anniversary
- Receive a 50% savings on eligible inflight purchases of cocktails and food on JetBlue-operated flights
- Enjoy an annual $100 statement credit after purchasing a JetBlue Vacations package with your card
- Free first checked bag for you and up to 3 companions on the same reservation when you use your card to book JetBlue-operated flights.
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
N/A
|
20.49% or 29.49% (Variable)
|
$99
|
N/A
|
- Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $500 on purchases within 90 days of account opening
- Earn 5X miles on eligible purchases at flyfrontier.com, 3X miles on restaurant purchases, and 1X miles on all other purchases
- 0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening (balance transfer fee applies), then a variable APR applies
- Earn a $100 flight voucher every account anniversary after spending $2,500 or more on purchases with your card during your card membership year
- Cardmembers enjoy Zone 2 priority boarding
- Annual fee $89
|
Intro (Purchases)
|
Intro (Transfers)
|
Regular APR
|
Annual Fee
|
Credit Needed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A
|
0% for 15 months
|
20.49%, 24.49% or 29.49%, based on creditworthiness
|
$89
|
Good
|
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 600 to 850
- Average: 721
- Translation: Must have fair credit or better to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-866-928-8598
- Online: https://www.barclaycardus.com
13. USAA — 8M Cards in Circulation
Begun by former members of the military, the United States Automobile Association issues credit cards for military servicemen, veterans, and their families. USAA members receive cash back, rewards points, low rates, and more.
- USAA Cashback Rewards Plus American Express® Card
- USAA Rewards™ American Express® Credit Card
- USAA Rewards™ Visa® Signature Card
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 650 to 850
- Average: 750
- Translation: Must have fair to excellent credit to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-800-531-8722
- Online: https://www.usaa.com
14. PNC Bank — 6.1M Cards in Circulation
A popular brand east of the Mississippi River, PNC Financial Services issues credit cards to individuals and small businesses with strong credit histories.
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: 620 to 850
- Average: 719
- Translation: Must have fair credit or better to become a cardholder.
Where to Apply:
- By Phone: 1-877-CALLPNC (225-5762)
- Online: https://www.pnc.com/credit-cards.html
15. Navy Federal Credit Union — 6M Cards in Circulation
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) is the only credit union to break into the largest credit card companies. It serves more than 12 million members, all of whom have ties to the armed forces, Department of Defense, or National Guard.
- Navy Federal cashRewards Credit Card
- Navy Federal More Rewards American Express® Card
- Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards
Credit Scores Approved:
- Range: No credit to 850
- Average: 700
- Translation: All credit types welcome to apply.
Where to Apply:
- By phone: 1-888-842-6328
- Online: https://www.navyfederal.org/loans-cards/credit-cards.html
Other Credit Card Issuers
Plenty of other smaller banks, credit unions, and digital-only (also called neobanks) banks also offer credit cards to consumers. Below are a few to consider:
- Academy Bank
- Alliant Credit Union
- Ally Bank
- America First Credit Union
- Andrews Federal Credit Union
- Applied Bank
- Associated Bank
- BBVA
- BECU (Boeing Employees Credit Union)
- City National Bank
- Celtic Bank
- CreditOne Bank
- Comenity Bank
- Commerce Bank
- Digital Federal Credit Union
- Fifth Third Bank
- First Citizens Bank
- First National Bank
- First PREMIER Bank
- Golden 1 Credit Union
- Goldman Sachs
- HSBC
- Huntington Bank
- Merrick Bank
- M&T Bank
- OneUnited Bank
- Peoples Bank
- Pentagon Federal Credit Union
- SoFi
- State Employees’ Credit Union
- Suncoast Credit Union
- SunTrust Bank
- TD Bank
- Truist Bank
- Trustmark National Bank
- Union Bank
- Varo Bank
- Webster Bank
Also Available: Local & New Offerings
As you can see by our lists, credit card issuers are plentiful, but many more issuers did not make our list. Many financial institutions operate on a hyper-local level. They may be community banks and niche credit unions that cater to your city or profession.
Be on the lookout for upstart credit issuers too. There’s an influx of neobanks that have ditched brick-and-mortar branches and solely operate online. The available choices of credit cards are seemingly endless.
Sources & Further Reading
As you can see, the nation’s largest issuers offer credit cards for all types of credit-worthy customers. No matter your credit score, however, you should take your time to research credit card offers and the companies behind them, as your experience can vary greatly based on the card and issuer.
With the right knowledge, you’ll be ready to make a responsible, informed decision in choosing your next credit card.
To see the top credit cards ranked:
Sources used to compile the data in this guide:
- https://nilsonreport.com/publication_chart_and_graphs_archive.php?1=1&year=2023#
- https://www.statista.com/statistics/618137/number-of-mastercard-credit-cards-worldwide-by-region/
- https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/whats-ahead-for-wells-fargo-and-its-customers/
- https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/list-of-credit-card-companies/
- http://www.relbanks.com/rankings/top-credit-card-issuers
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Editorial Note: Our site content is not provided or commissioned by any credit card issuer(s). Opinions expressed on CardRates.com are the author's alone, not those of any credit card issuer, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by credit card issuers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information; however, all credit card offer details, including information about rewards, signup bonuses, introductory offers, and other terms and conditions, is presented without warranty. Clicking on any offer on CardRates.com will direct you to the issuer's website, where you can review the current terms and conditions of the offer.
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