Consumer Protection Week 2025: Spotlighting the CFPB’s first-of-its-kind credit card shopping tool

Comparison tool could help save consumers money

WASHINGTON — In recognition of National Consumer Protection Week, U.S. PIRG Education Fund is highlighting the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) newly launched Explore Credit Cards comparison tool. The tool uses unbiased, public data collected by the CFPB from all major credit card companies and some smaller companies that have voluntarily provided it. Consumers can compare the annual percentage rates (APRs), fees, and rewards of more than 500 credit cards from 150 companies, by different credit tiers. 

“A consumer with an average $5,000 credit card balance can save $400 to $500 in interest a year by using a credit union’s or small bank’s credit card,” said Mike Litt, U.S. PIRG Education Fund’s consumer campaign director. “But when you visit many comparison sites, the results primarily feature the top issuers competing on rewards rather than APR. And the CFPB says some of these sites might be getting kickbacks for manipulating the results consumers get.”

To use the tool, consumers simply select a credit score range, location, and desired credit card features such as lower interest rates. (See image below.)

“Consumers now have access to a comprehensive, unbiased tool, free of paid advertising, that allows them to make more informed financial decisions,” Litt said. “The Explore Credit Cards tool is yet another example of the CFPB’s work to help consumers save money, underscoring the importance of supporting its mission.”

Image: The CFPB’s Explore Credit Cards comparison tool

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