The Milestone credit card is designed for individuals with poor or no credit history. However, alongside its benefits, the card also comes with several limitations that should be considered. Understanding its terms and fees will help you use the card more effectively.
1. Is Milestone a good credit card?
The quality of a credit card depends on an individual’s financial needs and credit situation. The Milestone credit card is specifically designed for those with imperfect credit histories or individuals looking to rebuild their credit scores.
One of its key advantages is that it does not require a security deposit, and when used responsibly, it can help improve credit scores. However, its downside is that it tends to have higher interest rates and fees compared to mainstream credit cards. If you are seeking a lower-cost option with more rewards, the Milestone card may not be the best choice.
2. Where can the Milestone card be used?
The Milestone Mastercard is accepted at most locations that support Mastercard payments. This means you can use it for in-store purchases, online shopping, or other transactions. However, to avoid declined transactions, it is advisable to check with the merchant or service provider before using the card.
3. Who is the Milestone credit card for?
The Milestone credit card is targeted at individuals with poor or no credit history. Specifically, it is suitable for:
- Those who cannot meet the security deposit requirement of a secured credit card.
- Individuals with low credit scores who struggle to qualify for unsecured credit cards.
However, if you have good credit or are looking for a card with a higher credit limit, lower interest rates, and more benefits, the Milestone card may not be the ideal option. It shares many similarities with the Indigo Mastercard, as both cater to individuals with limited credit histories.
If you prefer a more flexible alternative, you may consider a cryptocurrency credit card, which often comes with lower fees, does not require a high credit score, and may offer cashback or other attractive rewards.
To qualify for the Milestone Mastercard, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a valid Social Security Number (for U.S. citizens or residents).
- Provide a physical U.S. address and a valid IP address.
- Submit income and debt information for financial assessment.
- Complete the identity verification process as required by the issuing bank.
4. Which bank does the Milestone credit card use?
The Milestone credit card is issued by The Bank of Missouri, a commercial bank headquartered in Missouri, USA. This bank is FDIC-insured, which means customer deposits are protected up to $250,000 under federal regulations.
Although The Bank of Missouri is the official issuer, financial services related to the Milestone card are managed by Concora Credit (formerly Genesis Financial Solutions). Concora Credit specializes in providing financial products for customers with limited credit history or low credit scores, helping them systematically rebuild their credit.
5. Who issues the Milestone credit card?
The Milestone Mastercard is a white-label product, meaning it is issued by The Bank of Missouri but operated under the management of Concora Credit. This means that while The Bank of Missouri is responsible for the account and insurance, most credit card-related services—such as approval processes, issuance, and credit management—are handled by Concora Credit.
One key advantage of the Milestone card is that it does not require a security deposit, making it accessible to users looking to improve their credit scores with responsible usage. However, because it targets individuals with lower credit scores, it may come with higher annual fees and interest rates compared to traditional credit cards.
Additionally, cardholders can manage their accounts through The Bank of Missouri’s mobile app on Android and iOS, allowing them to check balances, make payments, and track transactions easily. If assistance is needed, customers can contact the bank’s customer service for prompt support.
6. How to cancel the Milestone credit card
You can cancel your Milestone Mastercard at any time, but there are some important factors to consider before making your decision:
- If you cancel before making any transactions, the bank may refund the annual fee (if applicable).
- If the card has been used, you must pay off the full balance before closing the account.
- Canceling the card may impact your credit score, especially if it’s your only credit card or one with a high credit limit relative to your total available credit. This is because your credit utilization ratio may increase, negatively affecting your credit score.
To cancel the card, you can contact The Bank of Missouri’s customer service via the phone number on the back of your card or through the bank’s mobile app. Once the cancellation process is complete, request a written confirmation from the bank to ensure the account has been successfully closed.
7. Pros and cons of the Milestone credit card
Pros of the milestone credit card
- No credit score required – You don’t need an established credit history or a high credit score to apply, making it an ideal choice for individuals building or rebuilding credit.
- No security deposit – Unlike many cards for individuals with low credit scores, the Milestone Mastercard does not require a security deposit.
- FDIC insured – Since it is issued by The Bank of Missouri, the card is FDIC-insured, ensuring the security of customer deposits.
- Monthly credit reporting – The Milestone card reports payment history to all three major credit bureaus in the U.S. (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), helping users improve their credit scores with responsible usage.
- Fraud protection – The card includes fraud protection, ensuring security for both online and offline transactions.
Cons of the milestone credit card
- High interest rates – The card has an APR of up to 35.9% for both purchases and cash advances, significantly higher than the market average. If you don’t pay off your balance in full each month, you could incur substantial interest charges.
- Expensive fees – In addition to the annual fee, the card applies monthly fees after the first year, increasing the overall cost of ownership.
- Low credit limit – The initial credit limit is only around $700, restricting spending power and potentially impacting your credit utilization ratio.
8. How much is the Milestone credit card worth?
The Milestone credit card comes with relatively high costs. The annual fee for the first year is $175, which decreases to $49 from the second year onward. However, a monthly fee of $12.50 (equivalent to $150 per year) applies after the first year. Additionally, the cash advance APR can reach 35.9%, much higher than the market average.
Given the high fees and interest rates, users should carefully consider whether this card is the right fit. If your goal is to build credit, there may be more cost-effective options available.
While the Milestone credit card can help improve your credit score, the high interest rates and fees can become a financial burden. Before applying, carefully assess the pros and cons to make an informed decision. If you have access to lower-cost alternatives, it may be worth exploring them first.
