Credit card for 18 year olds

Learn how student credit cards help build credit and money skills for young adults starting college.
Credit card for 18 year olds
3 min
20 February 2024

Credit cards are an essential tool for managing finances in college. Getting an 18 years credit card allows young adults to begin building their financial profile. Having a card in their name teaches students how to manage monthly expenses, make payments on time, and understand credit limits. With guidance from parents to those aged 18, credit cards can help instil smart money management habits.

As an entry-level financial tool, 18-age credit cards give college students a safe environment to gain real-world experience with credit. This is a solid head start on financial literacy and creditworthiness that will hold them in good stead lifelong.

Features and benefits

Student credit cards offer a range of features tailored to the needs of young adults in college. The application process is typically easy, requiring no income proof or lengthy documentation, allowing for quick approval.

One of the top benefits is the ability to build a credit history. Having an 18 year credit card in your name and making on-time payments helps establish creditworthiness. You can continue to use your student card responsibly after graduating. Timely payments will improve your credit score, allowing you to qualify for better loan terms in the future.

Many student cards have low or no annual fees. They have relatively low credit limits compared to standard cards. This ensures you do not overspend while learning money management skills. Student cards give you a safe way to get experience using credit during your college years.

Other features cater directly to student lifestyles. Student cards provide valuable savings through cashback, discounts, and reward points. You can earn cashback and rewards on common purchases like books, fuel, and online courses.

Eligibility criteria

To qualify for a student credit card, applicants need to meet certain requirements. The primary eligibility is being a college student aged 18 years or above. Some issuers may require you to have an existing education loan with them.

In addition to meeting the age and student status criteria, you will need to provide documentation to verify your identity and enrolment. Required documents typically include a birth certificate to confirm your age, a valid college or university ID, and a PAN card.

The eligibility criteria for student cards are more lenient than regular credit cards. You do not need income proof or a credit history. The streamlined application process allows students over 18 to easily obtain a starter card to begin establishing credit. Meeting the eligibility criteria and providing the required documents can get you approved for your first student credit card.

A student credit card is the perfect entry point to develop smart credit habits. Using your card responsibly during college lets you gain practical experience with managing credit. Making on-time payments builds your credit score so you can qualify for better terms after graduating. Once you finish college and start your career, you will be ready to upgrade to a full-featured card. The right credit card matches your lifestyle and gives you perks like cashback and travel rewards. Getting an 18 years credit card sets you up for credit success after student life.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the eligibility criteria for an 18-year-old to apply for a credit card?

The eligibility criteria for a student credit card are simpler than those for a regular credit card. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and enrolled in a college programme. They would have to furnish documentation to prove their identity and enrolment.

Are there specific credit cards designed for individuals aged 18 years?

There are numerous credit cards designed for individuals who are 18 years or older. While the Bajaj Finserv RBL Bank Credit Card has a minimum age requirement of 21 years, those who are younger can be added as an authorised user on the credit card account of a family member.

What steps should an 18-year-old take to build and manage credit responsibly with a credit card?

To build credit responsibly as an 18-year-old, get a student credit card, use it sparingly, and make timely full payments. Avoid maxing out the card, and ask to be added as an authorised user on a parent's account to leverage their credit history. Also, remember to monitor your credit report regularly.

Can an 18-year-old apply for a credit card, and what are the eligibility requirements?

Yes, an 18-year-old can apply for a credit card, but eligibility often depends on having a stable income or a co-signer, like a parent. Banks may require proof of income, identity, and address. Without income, students may qualify for a secured credit card against fixed deposits or a supplementary card from parents.

What are the best credit card options for someone who is 18 years old?

For an 18-year-old, the best credit card options include secured cards against fixed deposits or student credit cards with lower limits, designed to help build credit. Bajaj Finserv RBL Bank Credit Cards can be considered if eligibility criteria are met, offering various benefits and easy EMI conversion, which are ideal for beginners to manage expenses effectively. The minimum age requirement is 21 years, so students can be added on as an authorised user on a parent or family member’s card.

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