What is CardMatch and how does it work?

CardMatch is an application that presents you with targeted credit card offers after you provide various pieces of personal information, such as your income and birthdate. It is owned by CreditCards.com, a privately owned company within the parent company of major media company Red Ventures. While it’s a handy feature, the limited cards offered to you may not be worth giving up your personal data over.

What is the CardMatch tool?

CardMatch is an online tool that lets you view credit cards you’re prequalified for, as well as targeted offers from major US providers. To use the tool, enter your name, address and last four digits of your Social Security number. Then, you’ll see a list of suggested cards in one place.

Pros and Cons of CardMatch

If the idea of giving away such a large amount of personal information worries you, check out our Card Finder Quiz instead. After answering just a few questions, Finder can connect you with a wider variety of cards within your credit range and tailored to your preferences.

How does CardMatch work?

To use CardMatch and get your credit card suggestions, you’ll need to do the following:

1. Click on “CardMatch” at the top navigation bar of CreditCards.com.
2. Enter your name in the fields provided and click “Next” to start filling out your personal information.
3. In addition to your name, you’ll need to enter your:
   • Address
   • Employment status
   • Whether you own or rent your house
   • What you pay for your monthly rent or mortgage
   • What kind of bank accounts you possess
   • The last 4 digits of your Social Security Number
   • Your email address
4. After filling in your email address, click “Next” to view CardMatch’s personalized credit card offers.

Types of offers you’ll find using the CardMatch tool

• Prequalified offers. These are cards that match your credit profile and that you’re more likely to qualify for. Remember that approval is never guaranteed, and it’s be selective about which cards you apply for.
• Targeted offers. These are special promotions offered to you based on factors such as your credit history, location and spending habits.
• Normal offers.These are credit card offers you’re not prequalified for and that are normally available on provider websites.

Is CardMatch safe?

CardMatch collects a lot of personal information in order to provide you with their personalized card offers. CreditCards.com states on its website that your information is protected with 256-bit encryption, the same as major banks. With that said, RedVentures, the parent company of CreditCards.com, does share your personal information with partners. You can read more about how your information is used and how to request they delete your information at the Red Ventures privacy policy page.

Compare credit cards

If you want an idea of what cards you might qualify for across a wider variety of providers, use our comparison table below. Click your credit score below and select up to 4 cards to start comparing.

Bottom line

CardMatch can give you a decent idea of which cards you’re eligible for without the need for a hard credit pull. However, the limited card options and personal information requirements make it difficult to recommend unless you’re specifically avoiding credit checks.

For a look at all of your card options along with recommendations from Finder’s credit card experts, Visit our guide to the best cards of 2021.

Frequently asked questions

• What is a soft credit pull?

  Lenders and companies use a soft pull to check your credit and pre-approve you for certain offers — and it won’t affect your credit.

  Lenders use a hard pull to check your credit when they’re making a lending decision. This typically lowers your score by a few points.

• Do I have to apply for a card if I use the CardMatch tool?

  You’re never obligated to apply for a card through the CardMatch tool.