MetaMask Card Benefits and US Launch Restrictions
Actionable Quick Summary
MetaMask has launched its self custodial Mastercard across 49 US states. Users can spend USDC and USDT directly from their wallets at 150 million global merchants. The system offers 1 percent cashback for virtual cards and up to 3 percent for the 199 dollar Metal edition. Vermont remains the only excluded state due to regulatory hurdles.
What Happened
Consensys has officially moved the MetaMask Card into general availability in the United States. This follows successful pilot programs in Europe and Latin America throughout 2024 and 2025. The card is issued by Cross River Bank and utilizes the Mastercard network for global acceptance.
Unlike traditional custodial crypto cards, the MetaMask Card allows users to retain control of their assets. Tokens are only converted to fiat currency at the exact moment of checkout. This eliminates the need to preload funds onto a third party exchange before making a purchase.
Why It Matters Now
The introduction of the Metal Card tier signals a shift toward high end crypto lifestyle products. The 199 dollar annual fee provides a physical stainless steel card with enhanced limits. Metal cardholders receive 3 percent cashback in mUSD on their first 10,000 dollars of annual spending.
Privacy concerns remain a central topic within the community. While the wallet is self custodial, users must still complete a standard KYC process via the app. This identification requirement is mandatory for card issuance and compliance with federal banking laws.
Official Response
"We designed the MetaMask Card to make crypto disappear. Not go away, but become so seamlessly woven into daily life that the line between onchain and offchain fades away entirely."
— Gal Eldar, Product Lead at MetaMask, February 26, 2026.
Mastercard executives noted that the partnership empowers people to spend their digital balances securely. The integration supports Apple Pay and Google Pay for immediate use once the virtual card is approved. This move places MetaMask in direct competition with traditional fintech giants and crypto exchanges.
Verified Timeline
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Late 2024
Initial pilot programs begin in the United Kingdom and European Economic Area.
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Early 2025
Testing expands to Canada and Latin American markets including Brazil and Chile.
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Feb 26, 2026
General availability announced for the United States, excluding Vermont.
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March 2026
Shipments of the premium 16 gram stainless steel Metal cards expected to begin.
What Happens Next
Regulatory developments in Vermont will be monitored to see if the state joins the other 49. The success of the mUSD reward system will likely influence how other wallets structure their own loyalty programs. Users should expect more Layer 2 integrations beyond Linea as the product matures.
The balance between self custody and compliance will continue to be a friction point for enthusiasts. As more merchants accept crypto through Mastercard rails, the demand for identity verified wallets may increase. This represents a significant step toward the normalization of blockchain based finance.
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