Joint credit cards
There is no such thing as a joint credit card in the technical sense, but you can potentially allow an additional cardholder to spend on your account, which may make them seem like joint cards
Here’s what you need to know about so-called ‘joint credit cards’ and what to consider before getting one.
There is no such thing as a joint credit card in the technical sense, but you can potentially allow an additional cardholder to spend on your account, which may make them seem like joint cards
Here’s what you need to know about so-called ‘joint credit cards’ and what to consider before getting one.
What is a ‘joint credit card’?
There’s no such thing as a joint credit card in the UK. Unlike a bank account, you can’t take out a credit card in joint names.
However, you can potentially take out a credit card in your name, then add someone as an additional cardholder. They’ll get their own card and PIN, which will be linked to your credit card account. Sometimes you can have more than one additional cardholder.
The additional cardholder will be able to spend on their card, but the main account holder will be responsible for paying off the credit card debt. And points or rewards earned will go to the main cardholder.
If you’re living with someone and you share your household expenses, a so-called ‘joint credit card’ for couples could make sense in some scenarios. It depends on your circumstances and ultimately, the relationship you have with the person you’re adding given the huge levels of trust required.
While joint credit cards don’t exist, we’ve used the term in some places in this guide as we know it’s how many people refer to them colloquially. But we’ve put them in quote marks given they’re not a real thing.
Who is responsible for ‘joint credit card’ payments?
The main account holder is responsible for payments. It doesn’t matter if the additional cardholder is the only one who uses the card. If the credit card is in your name, you’ll be the one liable for paying off the accrued debt.
This means that if you miss a payment, the credit card company will chase you for what they’re owed, not the other person. The missed payment will also be marked on your credit file, not the additional account holder’s. So it would impact your credit score, not theirs.
How can I avoid charges and financial problems?
As with any credit card it’s important to only spend what you can afford, and don’t see one as easy money. It’s worth also speaking to any additional cardholders to agree on a budget beforehand.
Then to avoid interest, always pay the card in full each month. If you’re on a 0% interest deal for an introductory period, always make at least the minimum payments each month and aim to clear the debt before the 0% time ends to avoid costly interest.
How to get a so-called ‘joint credit card’
Like we’ve said there’s no such thing as a joint credit card, but to give someone else a card to spend on your account, assuming neither of you have the card(s) yet, the main cardholder can follow these steps:
- Check your eligibility – use our credit card eligibility checker to see which cards you’re likely to be accepted for without impacting your credit score.
- Apply for a card – once you’ve chosen the right option for your needs, you can then submit a formal application to the credit card provider.
- Request an additional cardholder be added – if your application is accepted, you can ask for an additional cardholder to be added to your account. You can do this via your online account or by phone.
Be aware that some credit card providers won’t allow additional cardholders, so be sure to find out before you apply.
If you already have a card and want to add someone, then simply ask your provider if they can issue an additional card. You can sometimes do this in your app, but you may have to actively contact the firm.
Read more on how to apply for a credit card in our detailed guide.
Top tipIf you want to share a credit card, think carefully about who the main account holder should be. If your partner has a bad credit history, but your credit score is excellent, it may make sense to take the card out in your name. A card in your name won’t improve the other person’s credit rating though. If you’re not sure who the main account holder should be, you could both use our eligibility checker. Then you can compare the results to see which one has the better chance of acceptance. It’s also a good idea for both of you to check your individual credit reports before you decide. |
Am I eligible for a credit card and to add an additional cardholder?
Credit card eligibility for the main cardholder will depend on the individual provider’s criteria. This usually involves a number of factors, including:
- Your age – you must be 18 years old or over to qualify for a credit card (in some cases, 21).
- Your income – you may need to earn a certain amount to be eligible for certain credit cards.
- Your financial history – it’s unlikely you’ll be accepted for a credit card if you’ve been declared bankrupt or have had any individual voluntary agreements (IVAs) or county court judgments (CCJs) against you in the past six years.
- Your credit score – the higher your credit score, the more likely you are to be accepted. A good credit score will also give you access to the best credit card deals.
To add an additional cardholder:
- There are usually no credit checks required to add an additional cardholder, assuming your credit card provider allows you to have another card.
- But they may want to know your relationship with the additional cardholder – some providers only allow additional cardholders if they’re a family member or living at the same address as the main cardholder.
The second cardholder must also meet other criteria such as being over 18 and with a permanent UK address (though rules may vary by firm).
Compare the Market Limited acts as a credit broker, not a lender. To apply you must be a UK resident and aged 18 or over. Credit is subject to status and eligibility.
Should I get an additional credit card?
Whether you should get a so-called ‘joint credit card’ is a personal decision that only you can make. Not only will you need to consider your financial circumstances, but also your relationship with the person you want to add.
No matter how well you may think you know the other person, adding them to your credit card involves some risk as they’re ultimately spending on your account. It’s a step you should only consider taking if you’re really sure.
Weigh up the pros and cons before deciding if an additional credit card is right for you.
Advantages of a so-called ‘joint credit card’
- Simplicity – it may be easier to manage one credit card bill each month.
- Potentially better access to credit for both – only the main cardholder needs to be approved for credit. So if you have a good credit score and your partner has poor credit, you can possibly both still benefit from lower interest deals.
- Rewards and cashback benefits – if you’re both spending on a rewards or cashback credit card, it may be quicker and easier to earn points as there will be more than one of you spending.
- Could help boost your credit score – if you have poor credit, you could apply for a credit builder card in your name. If you both use the card responsibly, it could help build your credit score.
Disadvantages of so-called ‘joint credit cards’
- You’re responsible for the debt – whatever the other cardholder spends on the card, you’re responsible for paying it and clearing the debt.
- You may not get a big enough limit – as there are more than one of you spending you may need a bigger limit than you’d otherwise have needed.
- Overspending could lead to extra charges – you could risk going over your credit limit if you’re both spending on the card, especially if you don’t know the other one is using theirs at the same time. This could lead to extra charges. You may also be charged interest if you can’t clear the full balance each month.
- Relationship changes – if your relationship breaks down, the other cardholder will still have access to your credit card account until you remove them.
- Potential arguments – if your spending habits differ, and you can’t agree on how to use the card, it could lead to disagreements and tension in your relationship.
- It could negatively impact your credit score – if the additional cardholder spends beyond the credit limit, it could damage your credit score.
Additional credit cards and economic abuse
The control of a partner’s or ex-partner’s finances is called economic abuse. In the UK, it’s a legally recognised form of domestic abuse.
One common example of economic abuse is coerced debt – someone forcing you into debt against your will. This could happen if a partner forces you to take out a credit card and uses it against your wishes.
According to the Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA) charity, one in five women in the UK has experienced economic abuse in the last 12 months. The SEA also reports that one in 13 women have had credit taken out in their name without their consent, or their credit rating deliberately destroyed.
If you have a well-established and trusting relationship, adding an additional cardholder can be a useful tool for co-managing your joint finances. But if you feel that you’re being pressured into taking on credit against your will, you could be experiencing economic abuse.
If you’re concerned about economic abuse for yourself or a loved one, you can seek help and guidance from the following charities:
Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA)
Age UK
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Respect Men’s Advice Line
Compare credit cards
While joint credit cards don’t technically exist, you can compare single credit cards with us.
Use our eligibility checker to find out which cards you’re likely to be accepted for without impacting your credit score.
Compare nowFrequently asked questions
Can I add an additional card for someone who has bad credit?
You should be able to put someone down as an additional cardholder, even if they have bad credit.
Usually, only the main cardholder will undergo a credit check. Acceptance, credit limits, interest charged and borrowing terms will be based on their credit score. The additional cardholder’s credit rating isn’t usually considered.
Can I remove an additional cardholder?
Yes, as the main cardholder you have total control of your credit card account. This means you can remove an additional cardholder at any time. You can also request a new card number if you don’t want the other person to know it.
To remove an additional cardholder, contact your credit card provider.
Who offers additional credit cards?
Most mainstream banks will allow you to add a second cardholder to your credit card account, assuming you’ve kept your account in good order.
You can usually find out if a provider allows additional cardholders in the FAQs or Help section on their website.
Does an additional credit card impact your credit score?
Yes, it could impact your credit score – but only if you’re the main account holder.
If you both rack up debts on the card that you can’t pay back, it could damage your credit score.
But, if you both use the card responsibly and make your repayments on time each month, you may see your credit score improve.
Can you have joint debit cards?
Yes, you can open a joint bank account in both names and you’ll each receive an individual debit card to use.
Here, both account holders will be responsible for managing a joint account. They’ll have equal access to the account including depositing and withdrawing funds.
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The Editorial Team - Compare the Market
Experts in personal finance, insurance and utilities
Compare the Market’s Editorial Team is made up of industry experts with decades of experience in personal finance, insurance and utilities. Each of our authors has an area of expertise, where they can share their extensive experience to help you get a better deal, by finding the right product and saving money.