How Apple Card Issuing Bank Works

Author

Reads 1.3K

A Macbook Pro with Mobile Phone and Credit Card on a White Surface
Credit: pexels.com, A Macbook Pro with Mobile Phone and Credit Card on a White Surface

Apple Card's issuing bank is Goldman Sachs, a well-established financial institution with a long history of providing banking services.

Goldman Sachs has been working closely with Apple to create a credit card that is both secure and user-friendly.

The partnership between Apple and Goldman Sachs has resulted in a unique credit card that offers 3% cashback on purchases made directly within the Apple ecosystem, including iTunes, Apple Music, and Apple Books.

This cashback benefit is a key feature of the Apple Card and is made possible through the partnership between Apple and Goldman Sachs.

Apple Card Features

The Apple Card offers a cashback feature that rewards customers for their purchases. This cashback is deposited into the customer's Apple Cash account.

Regular purchases made with the physical card earn 1% cashback.

Purchases made with Apple Pay earn a higher cashback rate of 2%. I've noticed that using Apple Pay has become more convenient with the increasing availability of contactless payment options.

Purchases at Apple Stores and selected partners earn the highest cashback rate of 3%.

Fees

Credit: youtube.com, Retailers Don't Like Paying the Fees for Your Apple Card

The Apple Card issuing bank has a straightforward approach to fees.

It doesn't charge late fees, which can be a huge relief for those who occasionally forget to pay on time.

You'll also never have to worry about foreign transaction fees, making it a great option for international travel.

Returned payment fees are also a no-go with the Apple Card.

However, if you do carry a balance, you will be charged interest fees.

Additionally, the bank charges interchange fees to the vendor, which is a standard practice in the credit card industry.

Privacy and Security

Apple Card takes the lead in prioritizing user privacy and security.

A unique card number is created for each device and is stored in a secure element, ensuring that transactions are handled and cryptographic functions are performed safely.

Each transaction uses its own one-time dynamic security code and is authorized with Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode, adding an extra layer of protection.

Credit: youtube.com, Apple pulls data protection tool after UK government security row | BBC News

Transaction history for Apple Card is stored on and synced across devices using iCloud and is encrypted, so only the authorized account holder can view it.

Two-factor authentication must be enabled on the user's Apple ID account in order to apply for Apple Card, providing an additional safeguard.

By early 2024, 12 million people held an Apple Card, a testament to the trust users have in the platform's security measures.

Card Management

You can easily manage your Apple Card by visiting the Card Management section.

If you've lost or stolen your titanium Apple Card, you can request a replacement.

To replace a lost or stolen card, you can follow the instructions provided by the issuing bank.

You can also order and activate a new titanium Apple Card if you need a replacement.

Getting Started

To apply for an Apple Card, start by learning how to apply - you can find more information in the User Guide.

Credit: youtube.com, Apple Card - Live Application & First Look

You can apply for an Apple Card directly from within the Wallet app, and upon approval, a digital Apple Card will be made available immediately on all of your devices.

The physical card doesn't display numbers on the front, instead, you'll receive a 16-digit virtual card number for websites and apps that don't accept Apple Pay.

Instant Issuance

You can apply for an Apple Card directly from within the Wallet app. Upon approval, a digital Apple Card is made available immediately on all of your devices.

One of the best things about instant issuance is that you can start using your Apple Card right away. You can make purchases, check your balance, and even earn rewards without having to wait for a physical card to arrive.

To make things even more convenient, you can order a physical card for use at locations that don't accept contactless payments. This way, you'll have a card to use when you need it.

Your physical Apple Card won't display numbers on the front, but you'll receive a 16-digit virtual card number for websites and apps that don't accept Apple Pay. This virtual number can be used to make online purchases or sign up for services that require a card number.

Get Started

Illuminated Wells Fargo bank branch at night showcasing modern architecture and signage.
Credit: pexels.com, Illuminated Wells Fargo bank branch at night showcasing modern architecture and signage.

To get started, learn how to apply for the program.

First, you'll want to explore the user guide to understand how everything works. The user guide will give you a comprehensive overview of the program and its features.

To get started, check out the user guide for more information.

Using the Card

You can make purchases with your Apple Card using Apple Pay, which is a convenient and secure way to pay in stores, online, and in apps.

To pay with Apple Pay, simply select your Apple Card as your payment method and authenticate the transaction with Face ID, Touch ID, or a password.

You can also use your virtual card number to make online purchases, which can be found in the Wallet app on your iPhone.

If you prefer to use a physical card, you can request a titanium card, which is made of titanium and has a unique design.

Customer Experience

The Apple Card issuing bank is committed to delivering a seamless customer experience. Apple Card's physical card is made of titanium, a durable and premium material that reflects the card's minimalist design.

Credit: youtube.com, Why Apple And Goldman Sachs Are Breaking Up

One of the standout features of Apple Card is its lack of fees. Apple Card has no late fees, no foreign transaction fees, and no annual fees. This means that users can enjoy their Apple Card without worrying about extra charges.

Apple Card's customer experience is also enhanced by its integration with Apple devices. Users can easily track their spending, make payments, and monitor their account activity through the Wallet app on their iPhone or iPad.

Reception

The Apple Card's reception was a mixed bag, with some users experiencing issues with credit limits and others accusing Goldman Sachs of discriminatory practices.

David Heinemeier Hansson, a well-known figure, tweeted that he was given 20 times the credit limit than his wife, despite her having a better credit score.

This led to accusations of gender discrimination, with Hansson stating that Goldman Sachs was using algorithms to determine credit limits unfairly.

Apple's co-founder Steve Wozniak also tweeted that he received ten times the credit limit that his wife was offered, further fueling the controversy.

Credit: youtube.com, Reception Skills Training

As a result, the New York State Department of Financial Services launched an investigation into Goldman Sachs's practices.

The investigation, which reviewed thousands of pages of records and interviewed witnesses, did not find evidence of unlawful discrimination against applicants under fair lending law.

However, the incident highlights the importance of transparency and fairness in financial services, and the need for companies to address concerns promptly and effectively.

Communications Meltdowns

Consumers were directed to dispute transactions through a "Report an Issue" feature in the Wallet app, but Apple failed to send these disputes to Goldman Sachs if the second form was incomplete.

This led to neither Apple nor Goldman Sachs investigating tens of thousands of disputes and cardholders being unfairly held responsible for disputed transactions.

Apple's "Report an Issue" feature was supposed to help consumers resolve issues with their Apple Card, but it ended up causing more problems.

Here are some of the ways Apple and Goldman Sachs failed to communicate effectively with their customers:

  • Failing to send disputes to Goldman Sachs: Apple failed to send disputes to Goldman Sachs if the second form was incomplete.
  • Failing to investigate cardholder disputes: Goldman Sachs failed to consistently send acknowledgment notices within 30 days, conduct reasonable investigations, or send resolution letters explaining the determinations of its investigations within 90 days.
  • Misleading cardholders about a payment plan: Apple and Goldman Sachs misled consumers about how the Apple Card Monthly Installments plan worked, leading to thousands of cardholders being charged interest instead of making interest-free payments.
  • Misleading cardholders about refunds: Goldman Sachs misled consumers about how it would apply certain refunds, leading to consumers incurring additional and unexpected interest expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is my Apple Card bank?

Your Apple Card is issued by Goldman Sachs Bank USA, a reputable financial institution.

Is the Apple Card still with Goldman Sachs?

The Apple Card is no longer partnered with Goldman Sachs, as the partnership reportedly fizzled out after five years. Apple is now seeking a new credit card partner.

Greg Brown

Senior Writer

Greg Brown is a seasoned writer with a keen interest in the world of finance. With a focus on investment strategies, Greg has established himself as a knowledgeable and insightful voice in the industry. Through his writing, Greg aims to provide readers with practical advice and expert analysis on various investment topics.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.