Can you get a credit card at 13?

No, you cannot get a credit card at 13 years old. By law, no one is allowed to open a credit card account on their own until they’re at least 18 years old, and they will need to provide proof of an independent income until they turn 21. At that age, they may list household income and assets on the application if they have reasonable access to those funds.

That said, 13-year-olds may gain access to a family member’s credit card account by becoming an authorized user. A number of issuers will allow authorized users under the age of 18, though some set a minimum age for authorized users and may not accept 13-year-olds.

Before you add a 13-year-old, or any teenager, as an authorized user, make sure he or she understands the basics of credit cards and personal finance. You should also set an example by ensuring that your financial situation is in good shape. Adding an authorized user to an account that’s on shaky ground could set the individual’s credit-building prospects back right from the start.