How old do you have to be to get a credit card

After months of saving and budgeting, Emily is finally ready to embark on her journey toward financial independence. As her 18th birthday approaches, she has been doing her research and eagerly considering getting her first credit card. However, she finds herself wondering about the age requirements and the best steps to take for managing a credit card responsibly. Is there a specific age at which she can apply, and what should she know before diving in?

In the United States, you can apply for a credit card at the age of 18, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

To elaborate, while you can apply for a credit card when you turn 18, obtaining one often requires you to show proof of income or a co-signer if you don’t have an established income. Many credit card companies have policies in place to ensure that young applicants can manage their credit responsibly. For those under 21, the Credit CARD Act of 2009 mandates that they must demonstrate independent income or have a responsible adult co-sign. Additionally, it’s crucial for anyone considering their first credit card to understand the implications of credit scores, interest rates, and the importance of timely payments to avoid debt. Establishing good credit habits early on can set the foundation for a healthy financial future.