 TITLE: How to Help Your Teen Build Credit Now CONTENT: 4\\. Sign Your Teen Up for a Credit Card\n---------------------------------------\nOnce your teen has proven that they are responsible with a prepaid card or their checking account and debit card, it'll be time to take the next step and sign them up for their first credit card so they can begin building their credit history.\nAccording to the Credit CARD Act of 2009, anyone under age 21 cannot get approved for a credit card without a cosigner or their own source of income. If your child does not work, you'll need to cosign their application.\nYou can also make them an authorized user on your credit card. This is the ideal option if your child is still in high school, as it can help them establish a good credit history while they are living with you and you have more control over their actions. Not all card issuers automatically send payment data to the three main credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax), so when you're considering adding your child to your account, be sure to find out if yours does. END