The credit cards industry in the US serves a vital role in consumer finance, providing consumers with access to credit for everyday purchases and larger investments. Companies range from established banks to fintech startups, each offering varied financial products such as credit cards, cash back rewards, and points systems. There is a noticeable shift towards digital services and inclusive financial solutions, with many firms leveraging technology to cater to underbanked consumers. As adoption of contactless payments and mobile wallets increases, innovative loyalty programs and flexible repayment options are set to shape the future of the industry.

This list highlights 22 prominent credit card companies in the US, reflecting a mix of company sizes, from small firms like Petal to large institutions such as Barclays Bank US. Founded between the 1960s and 2010s, their headquarters span cities like Las Vegas, New York, and Wilmington, each specializing in unique financial solutions. Many companies focus on particular niches, such as subprime credit access or premium rewards cards, with a collective goal of simplifying access to credit for consumers in various financial situations.

Read on for insights about top credit cards companies in the US.

Top 22 Credit Cards Companies in the US

1. Credit One Bank

• Website: creditonebank.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Las Vegas, Nevada, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, India 4%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: credit-one-bank

Credit One Bank, founded in 1984 and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a private financial institution that primarily offers credit card services. The bank focuses on providing credit solutions for individuals with low credit scores, making it a key player in the subprime credit card market. Credit One Bank's product lineup includes various credit cards that offer cash back and points rewards, catering to consumers who are looking to improve their creditworthiness. The bank has also expanded its services to include high-yield savings accounts and certificates of deposit. Notably, Credit One Bank has formed partnerships with prominent organizations, such as the Las Vegas Raiders and NASCAR, which not only boosts its brand recognition but also aligns it with popular consumer interests. This strategic positioning allows Credit One Bank to maintain a significant presence in the credit card industry, particularly among consumers seeking to rebuild their credit profiles.

2. Barclays Bank US

• Website: barclaysus.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, India 8%
• Founded year: 1966
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: barclaysbankus

Barclays Bank US, established in 1966 and headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, operates as a consumer bank that provides a range of financial products, including credit cards, savings accounts, and personal loans. The bank is dedicated to delivering innovative banking solutions that assist individual consumers in managing their finances and achieving their financial objectives. With a workforce of approximately 687 employees, the company emphasizes customer-centric values and has formed partnerships with prominent brands to offer co-branded credit cards. These partnerships enhance their product portfolio and cater to specific consumer interests, such as travel and entertainment. Barclays Bank US is a member of the FDIC, ensuring that it adheres to regulatory standards and provides a secure banking environment for its customers.

3. Petal

• Website: petalcard.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: April 2024
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: petalcard

Petal Card, Inc. is a New York-based financial services provider founded in 2016. The company specializes in credit cards aimed at helping consumers build their credit history, particularly targeting individuals with limited or no prior credit experience. Petal offers two main credit card products: Petal 1 and Petal 2, both designed to facilitate responsible credit use while providing cash back rewards. The cards report to major credit bureaus, allowing users to improve their credit scores through responsible usage. Petal's unique approach includes evaluating applicants based on their bank data, which helps extend credit to those who might otherwise be declined based on traditional credit scores. This innovative model positions Petal as a relevant player in the credit card industry, focusing on empowering users to establish and maintain good credit habits.

4. Bread

• Website: breadpayments.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $450.0M, October 2020
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bread-finance

Bread Financial, founded in 2014 and based in New York, is a financial services company that specializes in providing a range of products including credit cards, loans, and savings accounts. The company serves both consumers and businesses, focusing on solutions that help manage finances, consolidate debt, and save for future needs. Bread Financial is particularly known for its credit card offerings, such as the Bread Cashback Card and Bread Rewards Card, which cater to a variety of consumer preferences. The company has also secured significant funding, with a reported amount of $450 million in 2020, which supports its growth and product development initiatives. Their commitment to financial education and customer empowerment further enhances their role in the financial services sector, making them a notable entity in the credit card market.

5. Upgrade, Inc.

• Website: upgrade.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 79%, Canada 20%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $280.0M, November 2021
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: upgrade-inc.

Upgrade, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in San Francisco, California, is a financial services company that specializes in providing a range of products aimed at helping consumers manage their finances. The company offers personal loans, credit cards, and savings accounts, primarily through an online platform designed for ease of use. Upgrade's credit card products, such as the Upgrade OneCard, allow customers to earn cash back on purchases while providing flexible payment options. With over 5 million customers and $31 billion borrowed, Upgrade has established itself as a significant player in the consumer finance sector. The company has received substantial venture capital funding, with its last round totaling $280 million in November 2021, indicating strong investor confidence in its business model and growth potential.

6. JCB International Credit Card Co., Ltd. (USA)

• Website: jcbusa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%, Sri Lanka 5%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: jcb-international-credit-card-co.-ltd.

JCB International Credit Card Co., Ltd. (USA) is a financial services company based in Los Angeles, California, specializing in credit card services and payment processing. Established in 1987, JCB USA offers JCB credit cards that are accepted at a variety of merchants throughout the United States. The company aims to provide consumers with convenient payment solutions and enhances the shopping experience through special offers and partnerships with various merchants. JCB cards are particularly notable for their acceptance at locations where Discover is accepted, expanding their usability for cardholders. The company employs a workforce of approximately 74 individuals and maintains a presence not only in the USA but also in the UK, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, reflecting its international reach. JCB continues to innovate with features like contactless payments and secure online transactions, ensuring it remains relevant in the competitive credit card market.

7. Current

• Website: current.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), December 2024
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: current

Current is a financial technology company based in New York, founded in 2015. It operates a digital platform that provides a range of banking services, including debit and secured charge cards, direct deposit, paycheck advances, and cryptocurrency trading. The company aims to simplify banking for consumers, particularly those seeking to build credit. Current's secured charge card allows users to make everyday purchases while building their credit history, catering to individuals who may not have access to traditional credit cards. The platform also offers features like faster direct deposits, fee-free overdraft options, and a rewards program for spending. Current partners with Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank to provide banking services, ensuring that users have access to FDIC insurance for their deposits. With over 4 million members, Current is focused on modern financial solutions that meet the needs of today's consumers.

8. Deserve

• Website: deserve.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: April 2025
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: deservecards

Deserve is a financial technology firm based in Palo Alto, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in a mobile-first credit card platform that serves both consumers and businesses. Their offerings include instant virtual card issuance, customizable rewards, and comprehensive customer support. Deserve partners with financial institutions and fintechs, enabling them to modernize their credit card programs and improve customer engagement through innovative technology. The company has developed a cloud-native, API-driven architecture that allows for rapid feature development and integration, making it easier for partners to launch their own credit card programs. Deserve's focus on security and compliance is evident in their adherence to industry standards, ensuring a reliable and safe experience for users.

9. Mission Lane

• Website: missionlane.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: February 2024
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: missionlane

Mission Lane is a financial technology firm based in Richmond, Virginia, founded in 2018. The company specializes in credit card services, particularly through its Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card. It aims to provide accessible financial tools and education to consumers, especially those underserved by conventional banks. Mission Lane emphasizes transparency, offering no surprise fees or hidden costs, and reports to all three major credit bureaus, which helps customers build their credit history. The company has garnered a membership base of over 2 million individuals, reflecting its growing influence in the credit card market. Additionally, Mission Lane has been recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to customer service, further solidifying its role in the financial technology space.

10. Compass Banca S.p.A. - Gruppo Mediobanca

• Website: compass.it
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Milan, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Italy 100%
• Founded year: 1960
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: compass-gruppo-bancario-mediobanca

Compass Banca S.p.A. is a financial services firm based in Milan, Italy, and part of the Gruppo Mediobanca. Founded in 1960, the company has built a strong reputation in consumer credit and banking. It offers a variety of financial products, including personal loans, credit cards, and insurance services. Compass operates through a network of branches and an online platform, making financial solutions accessible to individuals and families. Their credit card offerings, such as the Carta Easy, are designed for everyday expenses, allowing customers to manage their spending effectively. The company has also introduced innovative payment solutions, enhancing their service portfolio. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees, Compass continues to adapt to market demands and consumer needs, reinforcing its position in the financial sector.

11. Luxury Card

• Website: luxurycard.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Jackson, Wyoming, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Japan 10%, China 10%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: luxurycard

Luxury Card, founded in 2007 and based in Jackson, Wyoming, is a private financial services provider that specializes in premium credit cards. The company offers three main products: the Mastercard® Gold Card™, Mastercard® Black Card™, and Mastercard® Titanium Card™, each designed to cater to affluent individuals seeking exclusive rewards and benefits. Luxury Card distinguishes itself with features such as a 24/7 concierge service, competitive redemption rates for airfare and cash back, and a focus on enhancing the travel experience for its cardholders. The company has positioned itself as a player in the premium credit card market, emphasizing innovation and customer service. With a workforce of around 20 employees and a global presence, primarily in the United States, Japan, and China, Luxury Card continues to serve a niche market of high-net-worth individuals looking for tailored financial solutions.

12. Credit Cards Co

• Website: creditcardsco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Palos Hills, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Arab Emirates 65%, India 35%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: credit-cards-co

Credit Cards Co, founded in 2008 and based in Palos Hills, Illinois, is a private financial services company that specializes in providing a range of credit card options and related financial products. The company operates primarily through an online platform, allowing consumers and businesses to apply for various credit cards tailored to their financial goals. Their offerings include credit reporting services, identity protection, and debt consolidation, which are essential for individuals looking to manage their finances effectively. With a small team of 17 employees, the company has a significant presence in the online financial services market, particularly for those seeking credit solutions. Their focus on providing accessible credit options, including cards for individuals with poor credit, positions them as a relevant player in the credit card industry.

13. Card Works Inc

• Website: cardworks.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Woodbury, New York, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: February 2022
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: card-works-inc

Card Works Inc, based in Woodbury, New York, is a financial services company that specializes in credit and payment solutions. Founded in 1987, the company has developed a robust portfolio that includes credit cards, loans, and operational servicing for financial institutions. One of its notable subsidiaries, Merrick Bank, was established in 1997 and has become a significant issuer of credit cards, particularly for consumers looking to build or rebuild their credit. Merrick Bank serves nearly 3 million cardholders and has extended approximately $6 billion in credit. Card Works also provides comprehensive servicing solutions through CardWorks Servicing, LLC, which manages credit card and installment loan operations for various financial entities. Their focus on consumer lending, recreational lending, and merchant acquiring further solidifies their role in the credit card industry, making them a relevant player in the financial services sector.

14. Merrick Bank

• Website: merrickbank.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: South Jordan, Utah, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $2.6B, February 2020
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: merrick-bank

Merrick Bank, founded in 1997 and based in South Jordan, Utah, is a financial services institution that focuses on credit programs designed to assist individuals in building or rebuilding their credit. The bank offers a variety of products, including unsecured and secured credit cards, recreation loans, and certificates of deposit. With nearly 3 million cardholders and approximately $6 billion in extended credit, Merrick Bank has established itself as a notable player in the credit card sector. The bank is also recognized as a top 20 credit card issuer in the United States, reflecting its significant market presence. Merrick Bank aims to provide accessible financial solutions, particularly for consumers with varying credit histories, and emphasizes customer education and support as part of its mission.

15. Diners Club International

• Website: dinersclub.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: South Africa 26%, Peru 20%, Ecuador 10%, Other 43%
• Latest funding: July 2008
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: diners-club-international

Diners Club International, headquartered in New York, is a financial services company that specializes in charge card services. Established in 1950, it has carved out a niche in the credit card industry by offering a range of products that cater to both individual consumers and businesses. The company provides charge cards that come with various benefits, including access to airport lounges, expense management tools, and tailored solutions for small to large enterprises. Diners Club is recognized for its global acceptance, allowing cardholders to transact at over 55 million merchants worldwide. The company emphasizes enhancing travel and entertainment experiences, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize these aspects in their financial services. With a workforce of around 369 employees, Diners Club operates in multiple countries, reflecting its international reach and commitment to serving a global clientele.

16. Self Financial, Inc.

• Website: self.inc
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, India 10%, Australia 2%, Other 12%
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $50.0M, September 2021
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: self-lender

Self Financial, Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Austin, Texas, is a financial services company that specializes in credit building and personal finance solutions. The company offers products such as credit builder loans and the Self Visa® Credit Card, aimed at helping individuals improve their credit scores. By targeting consumers who are looking to establish or enhance their credit history, Self Financial plays a significant role in the credit card industry. The company has received substantial funding, with a reported $50 million in their last funding round in September 2021, indicating investor confidence in their business model and growth potential. With a workforce of over 800 employees, Self Financial is positioned to make a meaningful impact in the financial services sector, particularly for those seeking to build credit responsibly.

17. Continental Finance Company

• Website: continentalfinance.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, India 3%, Mexico 2%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $550.0M, December 2024
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: continental-finance-co

Continental Finance Company, established in 2005 and based in Wilmington, Delaware, is a financial services provider that specializes in credit card offerings tailored for consumers with less-than-perfect credit. The company has carved out a niche by focusing on financial inclusion, providing accessible credit options to individuals who may struggle to obtain credit through traditional channels. With a portfolio that includes various credit card products, such as the FIT Mastercard and Reflex Mastercard, Continental Finance has managed over 2.6 million credit cards since its inception. The firm prides itself on excellent customer service, ensuring that it reports customer payment performance to all three major credit bureaus on a monthly basis. This practice not only helps customers build their credit profiles but also fosters a sense of accountability. Recently, the company secured $550 million in funding, reflecting strong investor interest and confidence in its business model and growth potential. Continental Finance's commitment to innovative technology and customer support further enhances its position in the credit card industry.

18. HCS (now a part of Ally)

• Website: allylending.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Detroit, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $2.2B, March 2024
• Founded year: 1919
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: hcsloans

HCS, now integrated into Ally, operates as Synchrony Bank, a financial services company established in 1919. Synchrony Bank specializes in providing a range of banking and credit solutions, particularly in the area of retail credit cards and consumer financing. Their offerings include various credit products such as Synchrony Mastercards and specialized cards like CareCredit, which caters to healthcare expenses. The company has a strong presence in the marketplace, partnering with numerous retailers to facilitate consumer purchases through credit. Recently, Synchrony Bank secured $2.2 billion in funding, underscoring its financial stability and growth potential in the competitive credit card industry.

19. Grupo LAFISE

• Website: lafise.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Miami, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Nicaragua 58%, Costa Rica 14%, Honduras 14%, Other 14%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: lafise

Grupo LAFISE, founded in 1985, is a private banking institution headquartered in Miami, Florida. It operates primarily in Central America, with a significant presence in Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. The company provides a comprehensive suite of financial services, including personal and corporate banking, loans, investment management, and notably, credit cards. Banco LAFISE offers various credit card products that cater to both individual consumers and businesses, featuring benefits like a points rewards program and travel insurance. Their commitment to customer service and technological innovation is evident in their digital banking solutions, such as Bancanet and mobile banking applications. Grupo LAFISE aims to meet the financial needs of its clients while fostering economic growth in the regions it serves.

20. Synchrony Bank Credit Card Services

• Website: synchronybank.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Draper, Utah, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: synchrony-bank-credit-card-services

Synchrony Bank Credit Card Services, based in Draper, Utah, is a private financial services institution founded in 1988. The bank specializes in a variety of banking products, prominently featuring credit cards, high-yield savings accounts, and money market accounts. Synchrony Bank is particularly known for its retail credit card offerings, which allow consumers to finance purchases at numerous partner retailers. Additionally, the bank provides CareCredit, a credit card designed to help individuals manage healthcare expenses, showcasing its commitment to addressing specific consumer needs. With a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees, Synchrony Bank operates entirely within the United States, emphasizing its focus on the domestic market. The bank's services are designed to support both individual consumers and businesses, making it a relevant player in the financial services industry.

21. Zeta

• Website: zeta.tech
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: Series D, $50.0M, February 2025
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: zeta.in

Zeta is a banking technology firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The company focuses on providing innovative solutions for payment processing and core banking, primarily serving banks and fintechs. Zeta's platform allows these institutions to launch next-generation credit cards and enhance customer experiences through its cloud-native architecture. Their product suite includes credit and debit card processing, as well as Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services, aimed at improving operational efficiency and customer engagement. With a workforce of approximately 1,930 employees, predominantly located in India, Zeta has established a significant presence in the financial technology sector. The company has recently secured $50 million in Series D funding, further solidifying its position in the market and enabling continued development of its offerings.

22. First Electronic Bank

• Website: firstelectronic.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Salt Lake City, Utah, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: first-electronic-bank

First Electronic Bank, established in 2000 and based in Salt Lake City, Utah, operates as an FDIC-insured, state-chartered industrial bank. The bank is dedicated to providing a range of financial services, particularly credit products, to individual consumers and small businesses. With a strong emphasis on compliance and responsible banking, First Electronic Bank aims to enhance access to credit through innovative financing solutions. They have originated over $6 billion in loans, showcasing their significant role in the financial services industry. The bank collaborates with technology partners to improve customer experiences and offers various credit products, including general-purpose credit cards and point-of-need installment loans. Their commitment to serving consumers with limited access to credit further underscores their relevance in the credit card market.

Credit Cards Insights: Key Companies in the US

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