Zilch Classic Card Review

The Zilch Classic card is a flexible, app-based credit card that lets you either pay in full to earn rewards or split purchases into installments with no interest although some transactions may include a small upfront fee which will always be shown before you confirm payment.

There’s no annual fee for the digital card itself, and all charges or fees are displayed clearly in the Zilch app before you confirm a transaction, helping you understand the total cost before committing.

But how does the Zilch Classic card actually work? Who is it designed for, and what are the key things to watch out for before applying?

Here’s everything you need to know.

What is the Zilch card?

The Zilch Classic card is a digital card that combines elements of traditional credit and Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL). It’s designed to give you flexibility at checkout, letting you either pay in full and earn rewards, or split the cost of eligible purchases into instalments.

You can use the card for everyday spending online or in-store through your mobile wallet, and manage everything within the Zilch app; from available balance to upcoming payments and transaction history.

How BNPL regulation is changing in the UK

Most BNPL products in the UK have operated outside full Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulation, meaning they haven’t had to carry out affordability checks or provide the same level of consumer protection as credit cards. This is now changing. The UK Government confirmed plans to bring BNPL agreements under FCA oversight, following a review by the Financial Conduct Authority and HM Treasury.

Once these rules take effect, BNPL providers will need to meet stricter standards, including clear pre-contract information, transparent costs, creditworthiness assessments, and access to the Financial Ombudsman Service for customer complaints. The aim is to ensure that short-term instalment products are fair, affordable, and clearly understood by consumers.

Zilch is already operating within this regulated framework. Its credit card and instalment options are provided under a fully authorised consumer credit licence, meaning your borrowing is covered by the Consumer Credit Act and supervised by the FCA. This gives you the same key protections as other regulated credit products – including clear disclosure of terms, fair treatment obligations, and recourse if something goes wrong.

How does the Zilch card work?

Once your account is approved (subject to status and affordability checks), you’ll receive a virtual Zilch Classic card that can be used online or through your mobile wallet in-store. Each time you make a purchase, you can choose between two options:

• Pay in full: You pay the entire amount upfront and earn cashback or rewards on eligible transactions (subject to Zilch’s reward scheme terms and availability).
• Pay later: You split the cost into installments. These payments are automatically scheduled and collected from your linked account. No interest is charged, but some purchases may include a small upfront fee.

This flexibility is similar to buy now, pay later, but with the added benefit of credit card protections such as Section 75 coverage and clear regulatory oversight. All repayment dates, instalment amounts, and any fees are displayed in the app before you confirm a purchase, ensuring transparency and control.

What is the maximum credit limit on the Zilch Classic card?

Credit limits on the Zilch Classic card are set individually based on Zilch’s credit and affordability checks. The amount available to you depends on factors such as your income, spending behaviour, and credit history.

Zilch does not publicly advertise a fixed maximum limit, as it may vary between customers and can change over time. Limit increases are reviewed periodically and may be offered to customers who demonstrate responsible account management, but this is never guaranteed.

Can I withdraw money from the Zilch Classic card?

No the Zilch Classic card is designed for making purchases, not for cash withdrawals. You can use it to pay online or in-store, but it cannot be used to withdraw cash from an ATM or transfer money to a bank account.

This restriction helps customers avoid additional fees or interest that often apply to cash advances with other credit cards, and ensures the card is used only for eligible spending.

Always check the card’s terms for permitted use and applicable fees before making a purchase.

Is it safe to connect my bank to Zilch?

Yes connecting your bank account to Zilch is considered secure when done through official channels, as the process uses secure, regulated technology to verify your identity and assess affordability. Zilch uses Open Banking, which is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK.

When you give permission, Zilch can view certain financial data (such as income and spending patterns) through your bank, but it cannot move money or make payments on your behalf. This data is encrypted and shared securely via authorised Open Banking providers.

As with any financial service, always make sure you connect through Zilch’s official website or mobile app and avoid third-party links or unofficial offers.

You can always check Zilch’s privacy policy and Open Banking provider details before granting access, so you understand exactly what information is shared and why.

Who might the Zilch Classic card suit?

The Zilch Classic card may suit people who want flexibility when paying for everyday purchases and prefer managing their account through a mobile app. It can appeal to customers who like the convenience of choosing between paying in full or spreading the cost of a purchase over time, provided they understand the repayment schedule and potential fees involved.

Zilch may not be suitable for customers who:

• Need the use of a 0% purchase card or make balance transfers.
• Depend on credit to meet essential living costs or are already managing multiple debts.
• Prefer a credit card with traditional interest charges.

Frequently asked questions about the Zilch Classic card