 TITLE: When Is the Best Time to Give My Kid a Credit Card? CONTENT: Which Credit Card Should I Get My Child?\n----------------------------------------\nAs we mentioned, one option is to add your child as an authorized user on your existing credit card account. Another strategy, if they are 18 or over, is to cosign on a credit card so they can get approved with your help, since most credit cards usually require some amount of established credit history.\nOne option for those 18 years and older who haven't built any credit yet is a secured credit card. These are intended to serve as a low-risk way to build credit history and require a small deposit that's equal to your credit line. After a certain period of responsible use, the account holder has often built up enough credit to qualify for a standard unsecured credit card, if the card issuer offers one.\nOther starter credit cards include unsecured cards intended for those with limited credit history. The interest rates on these cards can be high, so ensure your child doesn't carry a balance if they get a card like this. The goal should be to make purchases they can afford (ideally everyday purchases they'd be making anyway) and pay the bill off quickly, before interest is charged on it.\nIn addition, there are some alternative credit products to consider, such as Petal. This is a credit card that doesn't require a credit history, but instead uses other factors like financial history to approve applicants. END