What Is Cross River Bank, and Are Its Credit Cards Right for You?

The personal credit cards issued by Cross River Bank are anything but ordinary. Each card offered breaks away from traditional credit card norms in its own unique way.

From a card that doesn’t require APRs or credit checks to one that allows you to use your car as collateral, Cross River Bank offers a diverse range of innovative credit card options.

Not only are the credit cards unique, but Cross River Bank itself is a one-of-a-kind institution. Based in New Jersey, the company operates as both a bank and a financial technology company specializing in building credit card programs.

Some of the standout cards issued by Cross River Bank include:

Here’s a closer look at a few of these unique cards:

What sets it apart: No credit check, no APR, no minimum security deposit.

Typically, secured cards require a deposit of $200-$300 to open an account. However, the Current Build Card breaks this norm by not setting a minimum security deposit. This means you could start with a small deposit, like $20, and use the Current Build Card for monthly expenses. By paying off your balance promptly, you can effectively build your credit score without a large initial deposit.

Additionally, the Current Build Card offers rewards, has no APR, and does not perform a hard inquiry on your credit during the application process.

However, as of March 2025, the Current Build Card only reports to Equifax and TransUnion, which may be a drawback for those looking to improve their credit.

What makes it unique: No Social Security number required.

For individuals who may have difficulty qualifying for a credit card due to the requirement of a Social Security number, the Neu Card offers a solution. This card accepts a valid Visa number and foreign passport instead. This feature makes the Neu Card a viable option for immigrants and international students. In addition to its accessibility, the Neu Card has no annual fee, late fees, or interest charges, and it earns 1.25% cash back on all purchases. However, there is a monthly fee of $4 or $7, depending on your credit limit.

Key feature: A credit card/personal loan hybrid.

The Upgrade Triple Cash Rewards Visa® and other cards in the Upgrade suite offer a unique blend of credit card and personal loan features.

With the Upgrade Triple Cash Rewards Visa®, you can use it like a traditional credit card for purchases and earn cash back in various categories. Additionally, you have the option to utilize the personal loan features of the card in two ways:

• If you have an outstanding balance at your closing date, Upgrade will convert that amount into an installment loan with a fixed rate and term.

• You also have the option to borrow money, up to your credit limit, and pay it back over time.

While the versatility of the Upgrade Triple Cash Rewards Visa® is appealing, it may not be the most cost-effective loan option. The ongoing APR ranges from 14.99% to 29.99%. Opting for a 0% APR credit card or a traditional personal loan with a lower APR could potentially save you more money in interest.

What makes it stand out: Credit limit secured by your car.

In the realm of asset-secured cards, Yendo offers a unique proposition. Rather than requiring a cash deposit, this card is secured by the equity in your car. While this setup may provide a higher credit limit compared to traditional secured cards, it also comes with a significant risk. If you fail to repay your balance, Yendo has the right to repossess your car.