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What is a Mastercard card?
A Mastercard credit card is one that uses the Mastercard network for processing transactions. Mastercard does not issue credit cards, and as a credit card holder, you’re unlikely to ever interact with Mastercard directly.
Your credit card is issued by a bank or provider that also sends you your monthly statement, takes your bill payments, charges you fees and interest and handles any questions you have.
The only parties that work with Mastercard are the retailer you're purchasing from and the bank or provider that issued your credit card. Mastercard will usually charge the retailer a percentage of the purchase price for processing the transaction.
Who does Mastercard work with?
Mastercard works with a number of banks and credit card providers, including those listed here.
Santander
Halifax
NatWest
Amazon
MBNA
Capital One
Sainsbury’s Bank
Post Office
TSB
Virgin Money
Aqua
There are three network providers in the UK: Mastercard, Visa and American Express. You can find out which network your credit card uses by checking the logo on the bottom right corner of your credit card.
Why get a Mastercard credit card?
Accepted worldwide
Mastercard credit cards can be used almost anywhere across the globe that accepts card payments. Just look for the Mastercard logo.
Identity Check™
Like Visa’s Verified by Visa, Mastercard has its own security protection called Identity Check. This uses advanced technology to verify that it’s you who is making your purchases. If there is any uncertainty, you may be asked to authenticate your identity via a one-time passcode or biometrics. It's easy and gives you the peace of mind that you're always protected.
Unique and exclusive offers
Unlike with Visa, Mastercard cardholders will get access to a range of exclusive experiences through Priceless.com. This means you can enjoy offers from popular brands and services, including theatre trips, hotel stays and personal shopping experiences. Plus you’ll get instant upgrades at certain events simply for being a Mastercard cardholder.
Priceless causes
Having a Mastercard can also make it easier to donate to causes that are important to you. The Priceless Planet Coalition, for example, is working towards restoring 100 million trees by 2025.
Zero Liability Protection
When you use your Mastercard, you're protected against fraud. With Mastercard, you can rest assured that your card provider won't hold you responsible for unauthorised transactions.
Zero Liability applies to ATM transactions and purchases made in the store, over the telephone, online or via a mobile device.
Note that Visa also offers a zero liability policy - read our guide to Visa credit cards to find out how the above benefits compare to those of Visa’s.
What type of Mastercard credit card is right for you?
Cards for spending
Spread the cost of your spending with a 0% purchases credit card
Spend abroad with a credit card that has low fees when you spend outside the UK
Cards with rewards
Earn money back on what you spend on a cashback credit card
Earn vouchers when you spend on a rewards credit card
Earn flights and holidays when you spend on an air miles credit card
Cards for paying off debt
Pay off your old credit card's balance interest-free with a 0% balance transfer
Pay off your overdraft or a loan interest-free with a money transfer credit card.
Cards for bad credit or first-time borrowers
Get a card if you have bad credit by looking for one designed to accept you
Get your first card by choosing one that could accept you and build your credit history.
Our featured Mastercard deals
Our editors have picked out some of our best Mastercard deals.
Representative example: The standard interest rate on purchases is 23.9% p.a. (variable), so if you borrow £1,200 the Representative APR will be 23.9% (variable).
“This M&S dual credit card offers 18 months of interest free purchases, while balance transfers are interest free for 15 months, but there’s a transfer fee of 2.99%. If you shop at M&S, you could earn points and get M&S vouchers.”
Representative example: The standard interest rate on purchases is 23.9% p.a. (variable), so if you borrow £1,200 the Representative APR will be 29.8% (variable).£3 monthly fee.
“This card offers 15 months for balance transfers and 15 months on purchases. There is, however, a £3 a month fee for the card.”
Representative example: The standard interest rate on purchases is 23.9% p.a. (variable), so if you borrow £1,200 the Representative APR will be 23.9% (variable).
“Earn M&S vouchers every time you shop and you'll get 0% for 28 months with a 2.99% fee (£5 min.) and 0% for 3 months on purchases. You can also add an additional cardholder over the age of 18 to your account, so you can both enjoy the benefits.”
We are classed as a credit broker for consumer credit, not a lender.
How CardFinder works
CardFinder is an eligibility tool that matches you with the credit cards you're likely to get based on your needs and circumstances. If you're looking for a Mastercard card, it'll match you with the cards you have the best chance of being accepted for.
CardFinder uses a “soft search” credit check, so your credit score will not be affected. This is why it's a good idea for most people to use CardFinder. You only apply for the cards you can get, so you’ll avoid hurting your credit score through rejected applications.
CardFinder is a quick and low risk way to ensure you only apply for a card you're likely to be accepted for.”
Mastercard credit card FAQs
How is a Mastercard credit card different to a debit card?
Debit cards are linked to your bank account and use your balance to pay for things; credit card spending lets you borrow money and pay it back later.
Which is best Mastercard or Visa?
It’s difficult for consumers to say whether Mastercard or Visa is best because they both offer very similar services. When choosing a credit card it’s much more important to think about interest rates and whether to get a spending or balance transfer card, than whether it’s Mastercard or Visa.
Where can I use a Mastercard?
You can use a Mastercard card in person (in shops, restaurants or other businesses), online, by phone, by mail order, in other countries or at ATMs. Look out for the Mastercard logo.
Are my Mastercard purchases protected?
Yes, credit card providers each offer their own protection services as well as Section 75 and the Chargeback scheme.
What charges will I pay on a Mastercard?
Credit cards come with a range of charges, including interest and late payment fees. But these are set by your credit card company, not Mastercard, and you can usually avoid them if you understand how they work.
Can I get a joint Mastercard?
No, credit cards are held and paid off by one person, but adding a supplementary cardholder gives them a card in their name that is linked to your account.
How long does it take to apply for a Mastercard?
If you apply online, it should take about 10 minutes and you usually get an instant decision. Applying by post or in a branch can take up to 10 days.
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