Overall, Small Business Card Monitor firms could stand to drastically improve their statement designs, both in format and in presentation. The leading firm receives an A- for its combination of useful content and well-organized information. One firm receives a B+, while every other firm scores a B or lower. The best statements use space effectively, make clear section delineations and consistently use typeface and font size to their advantage. Statements that incorporate color effectively, combine all card holders onto one statement and prioritize account summary information are especially well regarded. Specifically, this report focuses on the following criteria:
- Account information
- Format
- Presentation
Of all the statements in this report, only four incorporate color effectively. Only three firms offer a single statement for all card holders, with the rest sending separate statements for each individual. All of the card issuers prioritize account summaries by placing them on the first page of the statement, with all but one firm listing the account summary directly after the mailing address.
The details included in each firm’s transaction table range from extremely informative to clearly lacking in content. While some firms choose to start transaction tables on the first page of the account statement, others list it last. The best transaction tables receive prominent placement in statement organization, offer extensive detail about each transaction and stretch the width of the page.
Generally, firms do not offer any unique aspects in their statement design. Two firms stand out as clear exceptions, with the inclusion of full-color special offers and company-centric notation tools.
Additional key findings include:
- Only one firm offers a dispute form on the statement.
- Seven firms offer rewards summaries.
- One firm includes special offers on its statement.
- Six firms include full billing cycle dates.
- One firm offers a business-focused design.
