Metal credit cards come from the card issuer, not a separate vendor, and you get one by meeting the issuer's spending or income requirements for their premium tier
A metal credit card is a physical card made from stainless steel, titanium, or another metal alloy instead of plastic. The issuer manufactures it themselves and sends it to you after you're approved for a premium card product. You don't order it separately or upgrade an existing card to metal — you apply for the metal card product directly, and if approved, the metal card arrives in the mail.
Metal cards are offered only by issuers as part of their premium card lineup. American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One all have metal versions of their high-tier cards. The card itself is heavier than plastic, often has a raised metal logo, and typically comes in a branded box. The metal material is cosmetic — it doesn't change how the card works or what rewards it earns.
Key Takeaways
- Metal cards are issued only as part of premium card products, so you must meet the issuer's credit and income standards to be approved.
- You apply for the metal card product itself, not for an upgrade to an existing card; approval depends on the issuer's underwriting, not on your request for the metal version.
- Annual fees for metal cards typically range from $95 to $550, depending on the card's tier and benefits.
- The metal material is a design feature only and does not affect the card's function, security, or rewards earning.
- Some issuers offer metal cards only to existing customers who meet spending thresholds, while others open metal cards to new applicants.
Credit score and income requirements for metal card approval
Metal cards are premium products, so issuers set higher approval thresholds than they do for standard cards. Most metal card issuers require a credit score of 700 or higher, though some premium metal cards ask for 750 or above. The exact score floor varies by issuer and by the specific metal card product.
Income requirements also vary. Some issuers publish a minimum annual income (often $50,000 to $100,000 or higher), while others don't state a specific floor but review income during underwriting. When you apply, the issuer will ask for your annual household income, and they may request recent tax returns or pay stubs if the amount you report triggers additional review.
Beyond credit score and income, issuers look at your credit history length, recent inquiries, and existing account balances. A long history of on-time payments and low credit utilization strengthen your case. If you've been denied for a premium card recently, waiting three to six months before applying for a metal card gives the issuer a fresher picture of your credit profile.
How to apply for a metal credit card
You apply for a metal card through the issuer's website, by phone, or sometimes in person at a branch. Start by visiting the card issuer's site and finding the metal card product page. Read the full terms, including the annual fee, rewards structure, and any sign-up bonus. Metal cards often come with higher annual fees ($95 to $550) than standard cards, so confirm the fee fits your budget before you proceed.
Click the "Apply" button and fill out the application form. You'll enter your personal information, income, employment status, and Social Security number. The issuer will pull your credit report and make a decision, usually within minutes to a few hours. You'll receive a decision by email or through your online account.
If approved, the issuer will mail the metal card to your address on file. Shipping typically takes 7 to 14 business days. Some issuers send metal cards in a branded box with activation instructions; others include the card in a standard envelope. Once it arrives, you'll activate it by phone or through the issuer's app before you can use it.
Differences between metal cards and plastic cards from the same issuer
The material is the main difference. Metal cards are heavier, more durable, and feel premium in your hand. Some metal cards have raised logos or embossed details that plastic cards don't. Otherwise, a metal card and a plastic version of the same card product work identically — they have the same rewards rate, the same benefits, and the same security features.
The annual fee is usually the same whether you choose metal or plastic. If an issuer offers both a metal and plastic version of the same card, they typically charge the same annual fee for each. The difference is purely aesthetic.
One practical note: metal cards can trigger fraud alerts at some older card readers, particularly in international locations or at small merchants with outdated equipment. This is rare, but if you travel frequently or shop at merchants with older terminals, ask the issuer whether their metal card has been reported to cause issues in your region.
Metal card sign-up bonuses and ongoing rewards
Metal cards often come with sign-up bonuses, though the bonus is tied to the card product, not the metal material. A sign-up bonus might be a statement credit, points, or miles — the terms depend on the specific card. You'll see the bonus amount and the spending requirement (usually $3,000 to $5,000 in the first three months) on the product page before you apply.
Rewards rates are the same on metal and plastic versions of the same card. If the card earns 2% cash back on all purchases, that rate applies whether your card is metal or plastic. Annual benefits like travel credits, lounge access, or concierge services are also identical across material types.
The metal material itself doesn't earn you extra rewards or unlock additional benefits. You're paying the annual fee for the card's rewards structure and benefits, not for the metal construction.
When metal cards are worth the annual fee
A metal card makes financial sense if you'll use the card's benefits enough to offset the annual fee. If the card offers a $200 travel credit and you book at least one trip per year, the credit alone may cover a $95 annual fee. If the card includes lounge access and you fly multiple times per year, that benefit has real value.
Calculate your break-even point: add up the annual benefits (travel credits, lounge passes, dining credits, etc.) and subtract the annual fee. If the result is positive, the card pays for itself through benefits alone. Then layer on the rewards you'll earn from spending, and you can see whether the card is worth keeping.
If you're drawn to a metal card purely for the look or feel, the annual fee is harder to justify. The metal material doesn't change how the card functions or what you earn. If the card's rewards rate and benefits don't justify the fee on their own, the metal construction isn't a reason to apply.
Metal card alternatives if you're denied
If you're denied for a metal card, you have a few options. First, ask the issuer why you were denied. Common reasons include a credit score below their threshold, insufficient income, or too many recent credit inquiries. If the reason is a low score, wait six months and reapply after you've paid down balances or added positive payment history.
Second, consider applying for a standard version of the same card if the issuer offers one. Some issuers have a plastic version with similar rewards and benefits but a lower annual fee or no annual fee. You can build a relationship with the issuer, meet their spending expectations, and reapply for the metal card later.
Third, look at metal cards from other issuers. American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One each have multiple metal card products at different tiers. A metal card from one issuer may have lower income or credit score requirements than another. Compare the requirements and benefits across issuers before you apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade my existing plastic card to a metal card?
No. You must apply for the metal card product separately. Some issuers will close your plastic card and open a new metal card account, which creates a new account number and a hard inquiry on your credit report. Others allow you to keep both cards open. Ask the issuer about their process before you apply.
Do metal cards have better fraud protection than plastic cards?
No. Fraud protection and security features are the same on metal and plastic cards from the same issuer. The material doesn't affect your liability for unauthorized charges or the issuer's fraud monitoring. Both are protected under the same terms.
Will a metal card work at all merchants and ATMs?
Metal cards work at the vast majority of merchants and ATMs, but some older card readers may not recognize the metal material. This is uncommon in the United States but can happen at small merchants or in some international locations. Contact the issuer if you encounter problems.
How long does it take to receive a metal card after approval?
Most issuers mail metal cards within 5 to 10 business days of approval. Delivery typically takes 7 to 14 business days after shipping, so plan for 2 to 3 weeks total from approval to arrival. Some issuers offer expedited shipping for an additional fee.
Can I get a metal card if I have fair credit?
Most metal card issuers require a credit score of 700 or higher, so fair credit (typically 580 to 669) will likely result in a denial. Build your score by paying bills on time and lowering credit card balances, then reapply in six months to a year.