Published 02/21/2024 Updated 02/10/2026 | BeCred

KOHO Mastercard

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KOHO is a fintech company based in Canada that offers a variety of financial services through its app. Among its features, the credit building tool stands out as a premium feature aimed at improving users’ credit histories.

No interest charges — since it’s prepaid, you never pay interest.

Earn up to 2% cashback with select KOHO plans (e.g. groceries, transportation, restaurants).

Free standard account or optional premium plans for extra perks.

Discover the PC Financial Mastercard

Earn PC Optimum™ points on everyday purchases like groceries and fuel. Apply for the PC Financial Mastercard and start earning rewards wherever you shop.

APPLY NOW * You will remain on the current website

Pros: Why People Choose Koho

  • Low-cost, transparent pricing: The Essential plan has no monthly fee and the app is straightforward to use.
  • Competitive interest: Koho pays more interest on held balances than many big banks, and it pays interest on money even while it sits in a spendable account.
  • Cashback rewards: Earning up to 2% on all spending (and more at partner merchants) makes everyday purchases work harder.
  • Modern app experience: Better budgeting and savings automation tools than many legacy banks.
  • Useful for couples: Joint accounts make family spending transparent and easier to manage.
  • Convenient payments: Direct deposit, e-transfers, and peer-to-peer payments function like bank features most people need daily.

Safety and Regulation

Bank charter in progress: Koho has indicated it is working toward becoming a registered bank. If achieved, that could expand offerings and regulatory standing.

CDIC coverage: Customer deposits held by People’s Trust are CDIC-insured up to prescribed limits (for example, CDIC rules typically protect eligible deposits up to $100,000—confirm current limits and eligibility).

Payment protection: Koho’s prepaid Mastercard transactions are protected through Mastercard networks.

Optimizing Your Credit Score

To maximize the benefits of KOHO’s credit building, it’s important to address any outstanding financial issues that might be affecting your credit score. This includes paying off overdue bills and managing debt responsibly.

Additionally, using credit monitoring services like TransUnion can provide insights into your credit status and help you identify areas for improvement. While such services might come with a fee, they offer valuable information that can aid in making informed financial decisions.

Sign Up for KOHO Now and Get Your Free Mastercard!

Credit card approval in Canada typically depends on your credit score, income, existing debts, and credit history. Lenders review your financial profile to determine whether you qualify and what credit limit they can offer.

Many basic credit cards can be approved with a score around 600 or higher. Premium cards may require a stronger score, often above 700. Some secured credit cards are available for people with little or no credit history.

Yes. Many Canadian banks offer special credit card programs for newcomers who may not yet have a Canadian credit history. These programs often include starter credit limits to help build credit over time.

You can build your credit score by paying your balance on time every month, keeping your credit utilization low, and avoiding missed payments. Responsible use over time helps strengthen your credit profile.

Paying the minimum keeps your account in good standing, but interest will continue to accumulate on the remaining balance. Over time this can increase the total amount you pay for your purchases.

Some credit cards charge annual fees in exchange for rewards, travel benefits, or higher credit limits. However, many Canadian banks also offer no-fee credit cards with basic features and cashback options.

CREDIT CARD

Discover the PC Financial Mastercard

Earn PC Optimum™ points on everyday purchases like groceries and fuel. Apply for the PC Financial Mastercard and start earning rewards wherever you shop.

APPLY NOW * You will remain on the current website

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