As a seasoned affiliate marketer, I have seen firsthand the potential of credit card affiliate programs. This highly competitive niche offers a speedy path to some of the highest commissions in the industry, with affiliates in The Affiliate Lab community easily collecting high 5-figure monthly commissions.
Having spent years in this niche, I have found that starting with the right network is essential to success. In this guide, I will share my expertise and review 12 of the top credit card affiliate programs available. You’ll learn where each program stands out, how they can support you, and get a snapshot of their programs and policies.
If you’re hungry for faster, better returns and are ready to take on the competition, this guide is for you. So, let’s dive in and explore the best credit card affiliate programs to help you achieve your financial goals.
Table Of Contents
1. FlexOffers
FlexOffers is a large network with more than 12,000 active advertisers. This is really a premium credit card market. They specialize in affiliate credit card programs. They currently have over 500 affiliate programs for financial services[1] alone.
In the past, both AMEX and Visa credit card affiliate offers have been available here, along with most other credit card brands. For the variety alone, FlexOffers has been called one of the best credit card affiliate networks.
During our cooperation, they have supported us through a feature-rich dashboard, easy-to-integrate content, and auto-generated reports that cover a range of different statistics.
Their FlexRev-$hare program gives you an additional way to earn through second-tier commissions. You can collect as much as 50% of the revenue generated by new publishers you refer to the network.
FlexOffers also distinguishes itself with its personalized approach to affiliate management. They assign a dedicated account manager to every affiliate, ensuring personalized support and guidance, which greatly enhances the user experience.
Also, their robust platform caters to various verticals, making it suitable not just for financial services but also for other sectors, thus offering affiliates a chance to diversify their portfolio.
Quick Look
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- Strength: Credit card and other financial affiliate offers
- Commission: $16-$400+ per conversion
- Cookie duration: Each program sets its own cookie duration. Between 10-45 days
- Payment methods: Check, Bank Wire, Direct Deposit
- Minimum payment amount: $100
- Programs offered: CPA, CPS
2. CJ.com
Commission Junction has more than 20 years of history as an affiliate network. More than one affiliate program from further down this list is managed exclusively on this network.
It’s a favorite of Hanso So of Problems.com[2], who has been very successful with the AMEX program.
The Avianca LifeMiles Credit Card is also offered here, and pays $200 per completed application.
CJ offers publishers who are interested in credit card programs access to some of the largest brands in the world. In addition to credit card affiliate programs, major retailers, including Overstock, Lowe’s, and Zappos all have offers posted here.
The network doesn’t focus on credit card programs, but it’s easy to search by advertiser type from the dashboard. You’ll have no trouble tracking down an affiliate program for credit card publishers.
Publishers are further supported by an advanced analytics system, a large selection of APIs, and a cookieless tracking system.
On top of that, CJ’s communication and support system has very good reviews. They also host webinars and provide resources to help their affiliates succeed, and their customer support is responsive and helpful, which can be a significant factor when dealing with various programs and campaigns.
Quick Look
- Strength: Credit card, finance, and advice affiliate offers
- Commission: Between $1-$140 depending on the offer
- Cookie: Varies depending on offer. Offers Cookieless tracking[3]
- Payment methods: Check, FedEx Check, Direct Deposit, Payoneer
- Minimum payment amount: $50
- Programs offered: CPA, CPL, CPS, Pay per call
3. Credit.com
Credit.com manages an affiliate program and reseller program focused on personal finance and credit card offers. Publishers can choose from personal loan products, credit cards, and even financial consulting services. They are one of the leading credit card providers.
They have attracted affiliate marketers from some of the largest credit card companies around, including Mastercard, American Express, and Chase.
They support publishers through a proprietary platform. On the platform, we had access to advanced account management options, tracking tools (with customized alerts), and educational materials that can help you project more expertise. And we really liked their recognized visa credit card.
Credit.com’s affiliate program is known for its high commission rates, which is a significant incentive for many publishers. The exact rate varies depending on the specific product or service promoted, but their competitive payouts make them an attractive choice for many affiliates.
Another advantage of partnering with Credit.com is the variety of promotional materials they provide. From banners to text links and email templates, they supply a range of resources to help affiliates successfully promote their products. This, coupled with their robust tracking system, allows affiliates to optimize their marketing strategies effectively.
Quick Look
- Strength: Credit card and finance affiliate offers
- Commission: Set by each advertiser. Varies depending on offer.
- Cookie: Set by each advertiser. Varies depending on offer.
- Payment methods: Check, Bank Wire, Direct Deposit
- Minimum payment amount: $100
- Programs offered: CPA, CPS
4. Capital Bank (OpenSky)
OpenSky is a secured credit card that is offered through Capital Bank.
While Capital Bank doesn’t manage their own network, the affiliate program for this credit card is available on several platforms, including the credit.com network we’ve already covered.
The program for the card is straightforward. Publishers receive a flat $25 commission for each account that is opened and funded.
This compensation scheme can make it one of the best programs for people new to the credit card niche. There is a high potential for conversion because the USAA card is available to nearly anyone in the US. Even those with poor credit or no credit have access to this card.
Publishers are supported with a library of creative materials including banners and copy.
In addition to the library of creative materials, OpenSky offers a robust tracking system. This enables publishers to monitor their referrals, conversions, and earnings in real time. The data provided can be instrumental in optimizing marketing strategies and increasing conversion rates.
Another significant advantage of the OpenSky program is its wide target audience. Since the card is designed for those with poor or no credit, it’s an excellent option for publishers targeting audiences seeking to build or rebuild their credit.
This broad appeal can result in higher traffic and conversion rates, leading to increased earnings for affiliates.
Quick Look
- Strength: Secured credit card
- Commission: $25 per funded account
- Cookie: 30 days
- Payment methods: Set by advertiser. Varies depending on offer.
- Minimum payment amount: Set by advertiser. Varies depending on offer.
- Programs offered: Flat CPS
5. Experian
Experian is a major provider of financial reports and loan offers. Their services include credit reports, debt reduction plans, personal finance, tailored credit card offers, and car loans and personal loan. The Experian credit card program is currently hosted on the CJ Affiliate network.
Publishers with financial sites can use Experian’s credit scores and reports as a helpful tool for their audience. It can be a great addition to other content focused on financial services.
This program pays a variable percentage for each referred customer. If you’ve built the trust to push your traffic toward multiple services and card offers, this could be one of the best affiliate programs for you.
Publishers can benefit from the trust Experian has established. They can also take advantage of some free marketing content.
Experian’s affiliate program also stands out because of its focus on education. They provide extensive resources about credit management and personal finance that affiliates can share with their audience. This educational focus can help affiliates build credibility with their audience and drive more conversions.
Affiliates also have access to real-time tracking and reporting tools that can help them monitor their performance, identify successful strategies, and improve their marketing efforts.
Quick Look
- Strength: Credit card and loan offers
- Commission: Earn up to 20% of the revenue generated by your users
- Cookie: 45 days
- Payment methods: Check, Wire, Direct Deposit
- Minimum payment amount: Varies depending on offer.
- Programs offered: CPS
6. TransUnion
Transunion offers a variety of credit protection services to customers, including credit reports, credit protection, and instant security alerts. So, if anyone needs to fix their credit karma, this is perfect.
Using the affiliate program, you can direct your traffic toward either the trials or paid financial products. A variety of credit card offers are also available.
For some offers, you may be able to collect both the trial and the purchase commission as the customer moves from trying out a service to subscribing.
Publishers receive custom tracking tools to manage their participation in the affiliate program. They’re also empowered by a great collection of pre-generated content and advertising materials.
What sets TransUnion’s affiliate program apart is its flexibility. They provide different commission structures depending on the product, which allows affiliates to choose the offers that align best with their audience and monetization strategy.
TransUnion also has a strong reputation as a reliable credit bureau. This credibility can be leveraged by affiliates to gain their audience’s trust, which is crucial for converting traffic into sales.
Quick Look
- Strength: Financial advice and credit card offers
- Commission: $20 per $1 7-day trial, $45 per paid product
- Cookie: 45 days
- Payment methods: Direct Deposit/Wire
- Minimum payment amount: Varies depending on offer
- Programs offered: Flat CPA/CPS
7. Credit Karma Affiliate Program
Credit Karma is a credit monitoring service that offers customers a one-stop look at their financial health. The platform doesn’t sell products. Instead, it provides recommendations and advice about 3rd-party services.
The affiliate program (available on CJ) pays a flat commission for each person you refer who opens a Credit Karma account.
The commission rate for the affiliate program is set at $.25 per signup, but it’s possible to make the returns significant if with a lot of volume. There is a high potential for conversion because of the useful, free features.
Publishers are provided with materials, tracking tools, and even a weekly newsletter focused on where and how other publishers have succeeded.
The wide range of free tools and services offered by Credit Karma – from credit scores and reports to tax preparation assistance – allows for a diverse array of promotional opportunities.
Affiliates can tailor their marketing efforts to fit their audience’s unique needs and interests, which can help to drive conversions and increase earnings.
The comprehensive support, including the weekly newsletter with success stories, further assists publishers in making the most out of their affiliate efforts.
Quick Look
- Strength: Credit scoring and reports
- Commission: $0.25 per sign up
- Cookie: 45 days
- Payment methods: Network-dependent (CreditKarma has been hosted on multiple networks)
- Minimum payment amount: Network-dependent
- Programs offered: CPA
8. CommissionSoup
CommissionSoup is a large CPA network with some of the most high-profile credit card programs available online. It is considered the best credit card affiliate program by some because it has some of the best credit programs.
The network is now 18 years old and has developed the trust of some of the biggest names that manage credit cards. It hosts offers related to credit cards from many recognizable brands, including AMEX, Mastercard, Visa Credit, and Credit One.
Publishers have access to many other affiliate offers. This can offer you some variety if you want to try something other than credit card affiliate offers after joining. Publishers are also given access to some proprietary tracking technology and marketing materials.
CommissionSoup prides itself on its innovative and user-friendly technology. Their proprietary tracking system provides affiliates with real-time data on their performance, enabling them to monitor their progress and optimize their strategies effectively.
This, combined with their library of marketing materials, provides affiliates with the tools they need to succeed in their promotional efforts.
Quick Look
- Strengths: Credit Cards and Finance
- Commission: $10-$40 depending on offer
- Cookie: 30 days
- Payment methods: Check
- Minimum payment amount: $100
- Programs offered: CPA
9. Bankrate Credit Cards
Bankrate Credit Cards is a credit card network in its own right, but it also manages credit card affiliate programs for some of its own rivals. AMEX, Chase, Capital One, and Discover all have credit card affiliate programs available on this network.
The Bankrate credit cards give publishers access to over 300 different offers related to financial advice and credit cards. Many of these affiliate offers come with their own unique terms and payout structures.
Each affiliate on the network is supported by a dedicated account representative. They are also given some helpful tools for tracking and measuring performance.
With over 300 offers available, affiliates have the flexibility to choose those that best resonate with their audience. This variety also allows affiliates to continually test and optimize their strategies based on their audience’s response.
By associating with a trusted name like Bankrate, affiliates can boost their credibility and conversion rates. This, combined with the potential for competitive payouts, makes it an attractive program for those in the credit card niche.
Quick Look
- Strengths: Credit cards from top banks
- Commission: 40%+ Rev-Share, Up to $200 per signup
- Cookie: 30-days
- Payment methods: ACH, Check
- Minimum payment amount: Varies by offer
- Programs offered: CPM, CPC, CPA, CPL
10. Credit Assistance Network
The Credit Assistance Network is a credit-repair-focused program. The products, including secured credit cards, are offered on the larger ShareASale Network.
In addition to credit cards, the hosted offers include educational resources and consulting services. Sites that focus on building credit and responding to events such as bankruptcies, liens, and ID theft may do well on this network.
Publishers are supported with a large selection of banners and creative assets that can be customized on request. Mortgage brokers and financial professionals have access to additional client-tracking tools.
The Credit Assistance Network’s affiliate program also stands out due to its specific focus on credit repair. This gives affiliates a unique opportunity to target a niche audience that is actively seeking solutions to improve their credit situation.
They offer competitive commission rates, which can be a significant earning incentive for affiliates. Depending on the product or service promoted, affiliates can earn a substantial amount per sale or lead.
Quick Look
- Strengths: Secured credit cards
- Commission: $1.25/lead, $95/sale
- Cookie: 365 days
- Payment methods: Network-dependent (This program is not hosted on it’s own network)
- Minimum payment amount: Network-dependent
- Programs offered: CPA, CPS
11. American Express
The AMEX referral program is one of the largest direct credit card affiliate programs in the world. You’ll work directly with the American Express card network to drive signups from individuals and merchants.
The program is available in both the US and Canada. There is currently a push to expand the program in Canada, leading to some higher rates for certain products.
Publishers are supported by well-developed resources that include sample code, APIs, and technical assistance. Official support from American Express is available 24 hours a day. Customers can be directed to that support so that they never need to contact you.
Promoting a globally recognized and respected brand like American Express can enhance the credibility of your site and increase conversion rates.
In addition, the program’s generous commission structure, particularly with the ongoing expansion in Canada, makes it an attractive option for affiliates looking for profitable opportunities.
They offer competitive rates for both individual and merchant sign-ups, which can result in substantial earnings for affiliates.
Quick Look
- Strengths: Single affiliate program credit card
- Commission: Up to $200/lead
- Cookie: 7 days
- Payment methods: Direct Deposit
- Minimum payment amount: Network-dependent
- Programs offered: CPS
12. Credit Repair
Credit repair is one of the major providers of all types of credit repair services. The site offers crest evaluations, educational resources, and guides. It also directs visitors toward credit card and loan offers that are matched to their credit scores.
The matching credit repair affiliate program rewards you for any products that a visitor purchases after being sent to CreditRepair.com. We have also been credited for any phone sales that happen after visitors followed our link.
The program’s long cookie duration is another notable feature. With a 1-year tracking period, affiliates can earn commissions on sales made long after a visitor has clicked on their referral link. This provides an opportunity for sustained earnings and is especially beneficial when promoting services that require careful consideration, like credit repair.
Finally, CreditRepair.com’s affiliate support includes a variety of promotional materials such as banner ads and text links. This makes it easier for affiliates to incorporate promotional content into their site, enhancing their marketing efforts and potentially boosting conversion rates.
Quick Look
- Strength: Credit repair
- Commission: $70 per funded client (each client who deposits money into the card’s account)
- Cookie: 365 days
- Payment methods: Direct Deposit
- Minimum payment amount: Based on monthly volume
- Programs offered: CPA
Start Right with the Best Credit Card Affiliate Programs
Credit card affiliate programs can be a path to some of the best commissions that you’ve ever seen.
This is a competitive niche with a lot of rules, but as you can see, there are many highly-regarded networks out there who have their own ways of supporting you. With the information you have now, it’s simple to test and find the best credit card affiliate network.
There’s another step you can take to guarantee that you work the best affiliate programs for credit cards. Join The Affiliate Lab and take advantage of our expertise to negotiate better affiliate commissions and flourish in the most competitive niches.
As soon as you join, you can be part of our lively Facebook group of pros. You’ll get tips that you can’t get anywhere else.
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