Can minors get credit cards?

Kids can’t open their own credit card account until they turn 18, and will need to prove independent income until they’re 21. But even before then, minors can benefit from becoming authorized users on a family member’s credit account.

Can a child under 18 have a credit card?

Legally, no one can get a credit card on their own unless they’re at least 18 years old. However, a minor can be an authorized user on someone else’s account.

What credit cards allow minors?

What’s the minimum age to be an authorized user on a credit card?

  • American Express: 13 years old.
  • Bank of America: No minimum age requirement.
  • Barclays: 13 years old.
  • Capital One: No minimum age requirement.
  • Chase: No minimum age requirement.
  • Citi: No minimum age requirement.
  • Discover: 15 years old.
  • U.S. Bank: 16 years old.

Can a 17 year old have a credit card in their name?

You can get a credit card at 17 as an authorized user, but you have to be at least 18 years old to open a credit card account in your own name. In the meantime, you can begin to build credit as an authorized user, and you can always use a debit card for everyday purchases.

What is the youngest age to get a credit card?

18
How old do you have to be to get a credit card? You can be an authorized user as young as 13, but you have to be 18 to sign up for your first credit card on your own.

What credit card can I get at 12?

No, a 12 year old cannot have a credit card of their own. Legally, you have to be at least 18 years old to be able to get a credit card. There is, however, the option to become an authorized user on someone else’s account.

Can I add my 12 year old to my credit card?

There is no overarching legal age requirement for adding someone as an authorized user. But card issuers do have different rules, policies and processes for adding minors to card accounts.

How can I build my child’s credit?

8 tips for parents to help their children build good credit early

  1. Start early.
  2. Teach the difference between a debit card and a credit card.
  3. Incentivize saving.
  4. Help them save early for a secured credit card.
  5. Co-sign a loan or a lease.
  6. Have them report all possible forms of credit.
  7. Add your child as an authorized user.

Can you add a teenager to your credit card?

Yes, you can add your teenager to your credit card as an authorized user, but the teen’s age will matter to some credit card companies. American Express and Discover require authorized users to be at least 15 years old, for example, while U.S. Bank requires them to be 16.

Can I get a debit card at 16?

You can open a teen checking account when your child turns 16. Teen checking accounts help teenagers learn how to check their balance, set up direct deposit, use ATMs, use a debit card, budget, and transfer money.