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. Note: interest and other charges typically apply to cash withdrawals, unless you have a travel credit card that doesn’t charge.

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 takes longer, and either way you must wait five to 10 days to receive your card.

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What is a Mastercard?Who does Mastercard work with?Why Mastercard?Types of Mastercard FAQs

What is a Mastercard card?

A Mastercard credit card is a payment card that uses the Mastercard network to process transactions. While Mastercard facilitates the transaction process, it doesn't issue the credit card itself. As a cardholder, you’ll typically have little direct interaction with Mastercard.

Your card is issued by a bank or financial institution, which is also responsible for sending you your monthly statements, collecting payments, applying fees and interest, and addressing any queries you have.

Mastercard’s role is limited to processing transactions between the retailer you’re purchasing from and the bank that issued your card. For this, Mastercard typically charges the retailer a fee based on a percentage of the purchase amount.

Who does Mastercard work with?

Mastercard works with a number of banks and credit card providers, including those listed below:

Santander
NatWest
Capital One
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 Mastercard, Visa and partner-branded Amex credit card, or across the top for American Express credit cards.

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.--

Mastercard Identity Check™

--Like Visa’s Visa Secure, the provider has its own security protection called Mastercard 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.--

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](https://www.money.co.uk/credit-cards/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?

How our eligibility checker works

An eligibility checker matches you with the credit cards you're likely to get based on your finances. If you're looking for a Mastercard card, it'll match you with the cards you have the best chance of being accepted for.

It 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 an eligibility checker. You only apply for the cards you can get, so you’ll significantly reduce the chance of a rejected application.

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About the author

Lucinda O'Brien

Lucinda O'Brien has spent the past 10 years writing and editing content for regional and national titles. She applies her industry knowledge to ensure readers can make confident financial decisions.