An affinity card is a credit or debit card issued by a bank in partnership with an organization, such as a charity, club, university, or association.

Simple Meaning:

It is a special card linked to a particular group, and a part of the spending may benefit that group.

How It Works:

A bank partners with an organization.

Customers who support that organization apply for the card.

A small portion of the spending or annual fee is given to the organization.

Example:

A university alumni association may have an affinity credit card where part of each transaction supports university programs.

Benefit:

Cardholders support their preferred organization.

Organizations receive funding through card usage.

In short, an affinity card is a co-branded card that helps support a specific organization.