Credit cards for under 18 are often of interest to parents who want their children to make purchases when necessary. Families who send their children to school or on trips may prefer these options so their children can use a credit card to cover expenses.
Can a Credit Card Be Issued to Someone Under 18?
The question of whether a credit card can be issued to someone under 18 is common. Generally, applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a credit card on their own. However, minors can be added to the process if a parent or guardian goes to the bank with them and applies on their behalf. Because individuals under 18 do not have full legal capacity, banks typically reject solo applications from minors; but when a parent accompanies them, obtaining a card becomes possible.
For this to happen, parental consent must be explicitly provided and one parent must submit the application. Another commonly chosen method is issuing an additional card. Parents or guardians who already hold a credit card can request an additional card tied to their account for their child. The card limit is set entirely by the primary cardholder, and any charges incurred on the supplemental card are the responsibility of the main cardholder. A supplementary card also offers parents the ability to monitor where the card is used through online banking.
How to Apply for a Credit Card for Someone Under 18?
To apply for a credit card for someone under 18, the child and a parent or guardian must visit a bank branch together. First, the child must have a bank account; banks generally do not accept credit card applications from individuals without an account. Opening an account for a minor requires the presence and consent of a parent or guardian. Account opening cannot proceed without parental authorization.
If a parent cannot come to the bank in person, a notarized consent document is required. After opening the account with that consent, the credit card application can be submitted. The parent or guardian who provided consent is responsible for card payments and any other legal obligations that arise.
Which Banks Issue Credit Cards to Those Under 18?
Several banks offer credit card solutions for minors with different benefits. One widely known option is from İş Bankası, which provides a card aimed at younger users called the “-18 Card” under the Maximum program. Along with earning points from purchases, cardholders can benefit from various campaigns. Features include making purchases within the approved limit, cash withdrawal options, transfers between accounts, and contactless payment capability for easier transactions.
Another bank offering cards for young people is Akbank. The Exi26 card targets customers between the ages of 16 and 26. This card allows users to collect reward points and make purchases online or at physical POS terminals within the credit limit. It also includes installment options at participating merchants, enabling purchases to be paid over agreed installment periods.