Features and Benefits of Add-On Credit Cards

Add-on credit cards, also known as supplementary or secondary credit cards, are additional cards linked to a primary cardholder’s account. These cards allow authorized users, such as spouses, partners, or family members, to access the same credit line and benefits as the primary cardholder. Add-on credit cards are an excellent way for cardholders to share their credit card privileges while maintaining control over the account.

Features of Add-on Credit Cards

Shared Credit Limit: One of the most notable features of add-on credit cards is that they share the same credit limit as the primary card. This means that all transactions made on the add-on cards are deducted from the primary cardholder’s credit limit.

Reward Points/Cashback: Add-on cardholders often enjoy the same rewards program benefits as the primary cardholder. This includes earning reward points or cashback on eligible purchases made with the add-on card.

Lounge Access: Depending on the credit card issuer and the specific card program, add-on cardholders may be granted access to airport lounges, hotel lounge privileges, and other exclusive amenities.

Consolidate Card Statement/Bill: Most credit card issuers consolidate the billing for the primary card and all add-on cards into a single monthly statement or bill, making it easier for the primary cardholder to track and manage expenses.

Benefits of Add-on Credit Cards

Zero or Minimal Membership Fee: Many credit card issuers offer add-on cards at no additional cost or for a minimal annual fee, making it an affordable option for sharing credit card privileges.

Same Benefits at No Additional Cost: Add-on cardholders typically enjoy the same benefits as the primary cardholder, such as travel insurance, purchase protection, and other perks, without paying an extra cost.

Track the Spending on Add-on Credit Cards: The primary cardholder can monitor and track the spending on add-on cards through the consolidated statement or online account management portal, providing better control over finances.

Limit the Spends on Add-on Credit Cards: Some credit card issuers allow primary cardholders to set spending limits or restrict certain types of transactions on add-on cards, ensuring better financial management.

Credit Card Offers: Add-on cardholders may also be eligible for various promotional offers, such as discounts, bonus reward points, or cashback offers, as extended by the credit card issuer.

Points to Keep in Mind

Billing: While the billing is typically consolidated, the primary cardholder is ultimately responsible for paying the entire outstanding balance, including charges made on add-on cards.

Effect on Credit Score: Add-on credit cards do not directly impact the credit score of the add-on cardholder, as they are not responsible for the account. However, the primary cardholder’s credit score can be affected by the overall account activity and payment history.

Not a Credit Builder Card: Add-on credit cards are not designed to help build or establish credit for the add-on cardholder, as they are not the primary account holder.

Add-on Credit Card Fee

Most credit card issuers offer add-on cards at no additional cost or for a nominal annual fee, typically ranging from 150 to 1000 or more, depending on the card program and issuer. However, some premium credit cards may charge a higher fee for add-on cards due to the additional benefits and privileges they offer.

Who Can Apply?

Typically, the primary cardholder can apply for add-on credit cards for their spouse, partner, children (over a certain age), parents, or other family members. The eligibility criteria may vary depending on the credit card issuer’s policies, but generally, the add-on cardholder must be at least 18 years old and have a valid government-issued ID.

How to Apply for an Add-on Credit Card?

The process of applying for an add-on credit card is relatively straightforward. Primary cardholders can typically apply for add-on cards through their credit card issuer’s website, mobile app, or by contacting customer service. The application process typically requires providing some basic information about the intended add-on cardholder, such as their name, date of birth, and contact details.

Documents Required to Apply for Add-on Credit Cards

While the documentation requirements may vary among credit card issuers, the following are commonly required when applying for an add-on credit card:

• • • A copy of the primary cardholder’s credit card
    • A valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID) of the intended add-on cardholder
    • Proof of relationship between the primary cardholder and the add-on cardholder (if required)

It’s important to note that the credit card issuer may request additional documentation or information as part of their verification process.