What Banks Currently Offer Metal Debit Cards?
Uncover the premium experience of metal debit cards. This guide details providers, unique characteristics, and the process to acquire your sophisticated payment card.
Metal debit cards offer a tangible departure from ubiquitous plastic cards. Crafted from metallic compositions, they provide a noticeably heavier and more substantial feel. While functioning identically to plastic debit cards for transactions and ATM withdrawals, their material composition is a primary draw for consumers.
Banks Offering Metal Debit Cards
Financial institutions providing metal debit cards in the United States are concentrated among certain types of providers. Fintech companies and credit unions are more commonly found to offer these premium cards, often as part of specialized account tiers. Traditional large commercial banks less frequently issue metal debit cards, typically reserving such materials for high-tier credit card products or exclusive wealth management accounts that require substantial minimum balances, sometimes in the range of $75,000 to $100,000.
Revolut, a financial technology company with a presence in the U.S., offers a metal debit card as part of its “Metal” plan. This plan carries a monthly subscription fee, which for U.S. customers is approximately $16.99. The card itself is made of stainless steel and comes with a suite of benefits that include international transfers, fee-free ATM withdrawals up to a certain limit, and purchase insurance. The Revolut debit card is issued through partner banks in the U.S., such as Lead Bank, which is FDIC insured.
Another example is United Heritage Credit Union (UHCU), a credit union that provides metal debit cards to its checking account holders. Unlike some subscription-based models, UHCU charges a one-time fee for the issuance of this card, typically around $35. Replacement cards, if needed, may incur a slightly higher fee, such as $50.
Key Characteristics of Metal Debit Cards
Their primary characteristic is the material composition, which can include stainless steel, titanium, various alloys, or even combinations with a polymer core. This construction results in a card that is significantly heavier than plastic, typically weighing between 13.5 grams to 28 grams for full metal cards, contributing to a perception of quality and exclusivity.
Durability is another significant advantage, as metal cards are far less prone to bending, cracking, or wearing down with regular use compared to plastic. This enhanced resilience contributes to a longer lifespan for the card, potentially reducing the frequency of replacements. From an aesthetic standpoint, metal debit cards often feature sleek designs, sometimes with etched details, unique finishes, or personalized engravings that provide a premium visual appeal.
Beyond their physical characteristics, metal debit cards are frequently associated with enhanced banking services and benefits. These may include higher daily spending and ATM withdrawal limits, complimentary airport lounge access, and various insurance coverages such as travel insurance or purchase protection. Some metal cards also offer accelerated rewards programs, such as increased cashback percentages on spending or more favorable points accumulation rates. While the card itself might carry an issuance or replacement fee, the value proposition often lies in these bundled premium services and the card’s robust construction.
Obtaining a Metal Debit Card
Acquiring a metal debit card typically begins with establishing an eligible banking relationship, as these cards are usually linked to specific account types. For many financial institutions, this means opening a premium checking account or an account within a higher banking tier. The application process for such accounts often involves standard procedures, which can include online applications, visiting a local branch, or contacting the bank’s customer service. Required documentation generally includes identification, proof of address, and sometimes initial funding requirements for the account.
Once the associated banking account is successfully established and funded, the process for obtaining the metal debit card can vary. Some institutions may automatically issue the metal card as a standard feature of the premium account. In other cases, customers might need to specifically request the metal version through their online banking portal, a dedicated phone line, or by speaking with a bank representative. It is important to confirm whether an additional issuance fee applies for the metal card itself, separate from any account maintenance fees.
After the request is placed, the card is usually mailed to the account holder’s address on file. Delivery timelines can range, but customers can generally expect to receive their card within a period of five to ten business days. Upon arrival, the metal debit card will require activation, which can typically be done through a secure online portal, a mobile banking app, or by calling an automated activation line.