Consumer complaint received 2025-09-29 00:00:00
Product: Credit card — General-purpose credit card or charge card
Issue: Getting a credit card — Application denied
Company: JPMORGAN CHASE & CO.
State: CA

Complaint narrative:
CFPB, I am submitting this complaint because Amazon has consistently failed to provide me with the fair and reasonable opportunity to obtain a credit card with them. This issue has caused me both financial harm and significant frustration, as I have attempted on multiple occasions to explore and establish a credit relationship with Amazon, only to be repeatedly denied the basic chance to even apply or proceed through their process.

From the outset, Amazon actively promotes its branded credit card programs with promises of benefits, rewards, and financial opportunities for consumers. They advertise heavily to customers who use their platform, and I have been one of those consumers who has long been encouraged to apply. Despite this heavy promotion, when I attempted to take steps toward applying for their card, I was prevented from completing the process. The system never allowed me to move forward in a fair or transparent way, essentially blocking me from participation without a valid explanation.

This is not a matter of being denied on creditworthiness grounds, which is at least a decision that should follow from an actual application. Instead, I was never given the opportunity to apply at all, which is fundamentally unfair. A company can not present credit products broadly to its consumer base and then arbitrarily decide to deny individuals even the chance to submit an application. This creates an environment of exclusion and discrimination in access to financial products, undermining consumer trust.

The lack of transparency in Amazons process makes matters worse. There was no clear disclosure, no written notice, and no adverse action explanation, as is required by law when an application is denied. Because I was blocked before the application stage, Amazon has effectively avoided compliance with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act ( ECOA ) and other consumer protection statutes that require creditors to notify applicants of reasons for denial. This lack of due process raises serious compliance concerns and leaves consumers like me with no clarity as to why we are excluded.

Additionally, this issue has direct financial consequences. Not being able to establish a credit line with Amazon means that I lose access to rewards programs, special financing offers, and opportunities to build or strengthen my credit profile. Amazon positions its credit card as a major benefit for loyal customers, and withholding access without explanation is both discriminatory and financially damaging. Consumers like me are left with fewer tools to manage our finances responsibly and are unfairly penalized compared to others who are granted access.

I want the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to recognize that this is not an isolated situation but rather a recurring problem that may affect other consumers as well. If Amazon is systematically excluding individuals from even attempting to apply, while still advertising its credit products broadly, this raises the risk of unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts and practices ( UDAAP ). The company should be held accountable to the same standards as any other financial institution or creditor, especially given its size, influence, and partnership with major banks that issue these cards.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation