Can you have two credit cards from the same company?

If you’re shopping for a second credit card, it’s possible—and maybe even preferable—to get a card from the same issuer.

As you explore your options, it’s worth looking at things like rates, bonuses, fees and rewards. Having two cards from the same issuer could offer simplicity and flexibility—not to mention additional rewards. 

What you’ll learn:

• It’s possible to have multiple credit cards from the same issuer.

• To get the most out of two cards from the same issuer, you could consider applying for cards that offer distinct benefits and rewards, such as a travel miles card and a cash back card.

• As long as you use them both responsibly, you could use two cards from the same company to improve your credit.

• Applying for a new credit card may require a hard inquiry. But pre-approval could allow you to check for offers first to see what cards you might be eligible for.

Whether it’s a good idea to have two credit cards from the same issuer depends on your particular situation. Here are some questions to consider when deciding whether it’s a good idea to apply for a second credit card from the same issuer:

In general, the better your credit scores, the better your chances of being approved for a second card.

Part of using credit responsibly is being able to pay at least your minimum balance on time each month. Look at how much debt you’re carrying now, as well as how much money you have coming in regularly. Will you be able to make consistent payments on both cards?

How many cards you should have depends on your circumstances. How are you managing your current cards? Would adding another card create a burden?

If there’s a low introductory rate, make sure you know what the standard rate will be once the promotional period ends and when that rate will go into effect. That can help you budget and decide how best to use the card.

Also worth keeping in mind is that paying off your balance every month is one way to avoid interest charges on new purchases.

It’s worth considering whether you’re willing to pay an annual fee for a new card. If there is a fee, how much is it? If the card comes with enough benefits to offset the cost of the annual fee, it might be worth it.

Here are some of the possible benefits of having two cards from the same card issuer.

One advantage of getting a second credit card from the same issuer is the potential to earn rewards from different categories, such as cash back and travel miles.

Here’s a way you might be able to maximize your credit card rewards:

Your existing card offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase. Meanwhile, a different card from the same company lets you earn elevated rewards related to travel. Having both cards could give you a one-two rewards punch.

If you don’t already have them, other perks you might enjoy with a second card could include cellphone insurance, travel insurance and airport lounge access.

When used responsibly, getting another credit card could help you boost your credit scores. One reason is because a new credit card account will boost your credit utilization ratio, an important credit-scoring factor. But keep in mind that overspending or missing payments could harm your credit.

Having two credit cards from the same company might make it easier to manage multiple accounts by offering a centralized place to manage payments, redeem rewards and more.

In some instances, it might be better to have credit cards from different companies rather than the same company. For example, you might find better or different rewards from another credit card company compared with your current issuer. 

You can’t usually transfer balances from one card to another card from the same issuer. So you’ll likely need to find another credit card issuer if that’s your goal.

Having two Capital One credit cards can boost your potential benefits and rewards. For example, having Venture X and a dining and entertainment credit card gives you the chance to maximize both travel and cash back benefits.

Having two credit cards from the same issuer could expand your access to credit, help you maximize rewards and make it easier to manage accounts. If you’re shopping around, you can compare Capital One credit cards to see if there’s a second card you’re interested in. 

If you find something, you can also check to see if you’re pre-approved without harming your credit scores.