How to Apply For a Metal Credit Card
Metal credit cards are more difficult to destroy than plastic ones. It’s best to send them back to the card issuer for secure disposal. Avoid using household shredders, which may release dangerous fumes and could damage your card.
Metal cards typically have high annual fees and require good to excellent credit. However, they also come with many worthwhile perks that make them worth the cost.
It’s a status symbol
Metal credit cards are a status symbol, allowing customers to distinguish themselves from the pack and stand out in the crowd. They are a great way to impress customers and increase brand loyalty. They also make a great gift for the people who matter most to your business, like friends and family.
Metal card makers are seeing more interest from consumers, and some credit issuers are converting plastic cards into metal ones for their high-spend customers. American Express first sparked interest in metal cards with its Centurion card, made of titanium, back in 1999. Its exclusivity and coveted benefits set the bar for luxury credit cards moving forward.
Currently, there are a dozen or so metal cards on the market, with more to come. Some cards are metal-plastic hybrids, while others are pure metal. Despite the added heft in a wallet, they still swipe, tap and insert like any other credit card.
To qualify for a metal card, you must meet a card issuer’s minimum income and credit score requirements. Some metal cards are geared toward travel, while others have high annual fees and premium perks. While Metal Card a metal card might feel nice, it’s important to choose the best credit card for your needs instead of its material. The best metal cards have rewards that exceed the cost of the card’s annual fee, so you can maximize your earnings.
It’s a luxury
Credit card companies market metal cards to affluent consumers with high spending and excellent credit scores. These premium credit cards often have higher annual fees than standard plastic ones, but they also come with unique perks and benefits designed to appeal to wealthy consumers. These perks can include lounge access, travel insurance, and concierge services. However, the perks do not always add up to the cost of the card’s annual fee.
Many of these metal cards feature a sleek, luxurious design and have a premium feel that isn’t found with most plastic credit cards. They’re also highly durable, and can be used the same way as standard plastic cards. You can swipe them at point-of-sale terminals or use them in your digital wallet.
If you’re interested in a metal credit card, you should compare your options and choose one that fits your financial needs. You can apply online or over the phone and, if approved, receive your new credit card in the mail without any additional steps. Many card issuers provide postage-paid envelopes to return an old metal credit card. This option can help you avoid paying a fee to shred or cut your card up, which is impossible with a regular pair of scissors. They’ll also dispose of the card in a safe and secure manner.
It’s a way to earn rewards
Metal credit cards are a great way to earn rewards. Many come with lucrative welcome bonuses, travel protections and annual credits. They also tend to have higher rewards rates than plastic cards. However, these cards are generally designed for those with excellent credit and a high income, so they’re not for everyone. Additionally, some metal cards have annual fees of up to $695, so it’s important to compare them carefully before you apply.
Although metal cards look slick and add a luxury feel to your wallet, they’re not without drawbacks. For example, they may set off metal detectors at airports or other locations that require screening. In addition, they’re difficult to destroy when you decide to close your account. Fortunately, most card issuers offer pre-paid envelopes to send expired cards back to them for secure destruction.
While most metal credit cards are targeted at high-spenders, there are options for average consumers. For example, the X1 Metal Card is an innovative design that’s perfect for those who want to make a statement with their card. nxp mifare desfire Its contactless certification, innovative printing features and elegant metallic edges combine to create a unique credit card that stands out from the crowd. It’s also lightweight, at just over 12.5 grams. The only downside is that it’s not compatible with some contactless payment terminals, so you won’t be able to use it at all restaurants or shops that don’t have contactless reader machines.
It’s a way to save money
Metal credit cards are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Many of them offer lucrative welcome bonuses and perks like annual credits that cover the card’s annual fee. In addition, they come with high rewards rates for specific spending categories and unique travel benefits. However, before you decide to pick a metal card, you should consider your spending habits and compare the available options. You’ll also want to take a close look at the card’s annual fee, as these cards often carry steep charges.
Although the swanky look and feel of metal cards make them attractive to some, they’re not always worth the high price tag. In fact, the most expensive metal credit cards charge over $550 a year. Fortunately, there are some affordable alternatives that can be equally stylish without breaking the bank.
The first metal card to create a buzz was the American Express Centurion Card, which is still a top choice for frequent travelers. The card’s exclusivity, perks and rewards have set a new standard for luxury credit cards. However, the space for metal cards has become crowded, and many are effectively vanity items that don’t deliver on their promises. Before you decide to apply for one, be sure to check your credit score for free on WalletHub and make sure that you have excellent credit.