How to Get a Credit Card for a Minor

While direct credit card applications are generally restricted for individuals under a certain age, specific mechanisms exist that allow minors to engage with credit under adult supervision. This article outlines the practical methods available for minors to obtain a credit card, focusing on the procedural aspects of each approach.

Understanding Eligibility for Minors

In the United States, federal law, specifically the Credit CARD Act of 2009, establishes age requirements for obtaining a credit card. An individual must be at least 18 years old to apply for a credit card in their own name. For those aged 18 to 20, the law mandates an independent income source or a co-signer to demonstrate the ability to repay the debt. Many major credit card issuers no longer facilitate co-signing arrangements.

A person under 18 cannot legally enter into a credit card contract independently. This necessitates adult involvement for minors seeking access to credit. The income requirement for applicants under 21 means many young adults may wait until they are 21 to apply for a credit card without these stipulations.

Becoming an Authorized User

One common method for a minor to gain access to a credit card is by becoming an authorized user on an adult’s existing account. An authorized user is permitted to use the credit card for purchases, receiving their own physical card often with their name on it. The primary account holder retains sole legal and financial responsibility for all charges, meaning the authorized user is not personally liable for the debt.

To add a minor as an authorized user, the primary cardholder typically needs to provide personal details to the credit card issuer. This information generally includes the minor’s full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Some issuers may have a minimum age requirement for authorized users, which can be as low as 13 or 15 years old.

The primary cardholder initiates this process, often through their online account portal, by calling customer service, or by completing a form provided by the issuer. After the request is processed, a new card for the authorized user is usually mailed, often to the primary cardholder’s address. Not all credit card issuers report authorized user activity to the major credit bureaus, which is important for the minor’s potential credit building.

Opening a Joint Account

Another pathway for a minor to obtain a credit card involves opening a joint account with an adult. In a joint account, both the adult and the minor are co-applicants and co-owners, meaning both parties share equal legal responsibility for any debt incurred on the card. This shared liability extends to making payments and managing the account. Because of this shared responsibility, credit card issuers typically assess the financial history of both applicants during the application process.

The application for a joint account requires information and documentation from both the adult and the minor. This includes providing Social Security numbers, identification, and income details for the adult applicant. Both applicants will undergo a credit check, and their credit histories will be considered for approval.

Not all credit card issuers offer joint accounts, and their availability has become less common over time. When an issuer does offer joint accounts, the application can often be completed online or in person at a bank branch. Once a joint account is established, removing one of the joint holders can be challenging and may necessitate closing the entire account.