Add-On Credit Cards

An add-on credit card allows the primary cardholder to extend their credit card benefits to family members, such as a spouse, parents, or children. These add-on cards are supplementary cards linked to the primary credit account, which can be used by selected family members. Add-on cardholders enjoy the same rewards, cashback, and offers as the primary cardholder, while all transactions made are tagged to the primary account. 

This means the primary cardholder remains responsible for payments and can set spending limits for added control. Add-on credit cards may help streamline family spending, boost rewards accumulation, and provide controlled access to credit for dependants.

With an understanding of how these cards work, here are some of the common features and benefits:

Credit Limit Management

Add-on cards share the primary credit limit, giving cardholders control over family spending. Many issuers allow custom spending limits per card, making budget management for each member easier.

Reward Points Accumulation

Purchases made on add-on cards contribute to the primary card’s reward points. This combined spending helps families earn points faster, unlocking rewards like cashback, travel benefits, or other loyalty perks.

Airport Lounge Access

Some issuers extend lounge access benefits to add-on cardholders, allowing family members to enjoy comfortable airport facilities during travel. This added benefit enhances convenience and elevates the travel experience.

Exclusive Offers

Add-on cardholders often access the same exclusive offers on dining, shopping, and travel as the primary cardholder. These benefits apply to each card, helping maximise savings across household expenses.

Simplified Expense Tracking

Transactions from add-on cards appear on the primary credit card statement. This transparency simplifies tracking and provides an overview of family spending, making expense monitoring easier for the main cardholder.

Financial Independence

Add-on cards provide family members, such as young adults or elderly parents, with controlled access to credit. This arrangement allows them financial independence while maintaining spending oversight and security.

An add-on credit card functions much like the primary credit card to which it is linked, but with a few key distinctions that provide flexibility and control. Here’s how an add-on credit card works:

Shared Credit Limits

The credit limit on an add-on card is drawn from the primary credit card’s limit. This means that spends by both the primary and add-on cardholders counts towards the same overall credit limit.

Customisable Spending Limits

The primary cardholder can set a spending limit for each add-on card, offering an efficient way to control each family member’s spending habits. This feature is especially useful for parents or individuals who wish to allocate a fixed allowance to their dependants.

Easily Track Transactions

Transactions made using add-on cards appear on the primary cardholder’s monthly credit card statement. This transparency allows the primary cardholder to track all transactions and ensure spending stays within planned limits.

Impact on Credit Score

Since all transactions on an add-on card directly affect the primary credit account, any late payments or high credit utilisation may impact the primary cardholder’s credit score. Responsible use and timely repayments are key to maintaining a healthy credit score.

Issuer Policies

Issuers may have different policies for add-on cards, such as age requirements for dependants or a maximum limit on the number of supplementary cards. Before applying, check with your card issuer for specific terms and conditions.

Primary credit cardholders can apply for an add-on card for close family members. This allows them to share the credit card’s benefits while staying linked to a single account. Generally, add-on cards are available for immediate family members over the age of 18 years:

• Spouse

• Children

• Parents

• Siblings

Note: The eligibility criteria, spending limits, fees, and other details for add-on cards may vary from one issuer to another. Visit the issuer’s website to check the latest details.

The number of add-on credit cards that can be linked to a primary card varies based on the issuer's policies. Generally, card providers allow between three to five add-on cards per primary credit card account. 

However, some issuers may offer a higher or lower limit depending on their terms and conditions. It’s advisable to check directly with your credit card issuer for specific limits and any restrictions on the number of add-on cards you can avail for your account.

Applying for an add-on credit card is simple and can be done online. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the official website or app of your credit card issuer

2. Locate the section for add-on credit card applications

3. Ensure the add-on cardholder meets eligibility requirements

4. Complete the application form with accurate details

5. Submit any required documents as specified by the issuer

6. Activate the add-on card once it is delivered

Note: These are general steps, and the process may vary by issuer. For specific instructions, check your issuer's website or contact their support team.

These considerations can help ensure a smooth experience when using add-on credit cards:

Shared Access

Although add-on cards are issued to family members, the primary cardholder has complete oversight of all transactions. They can set spending limits for each add-on card, ensuring better control over family expenses.

Primary Cardholder Responsibility

The primary cardholder bears full responsibility for payments, including all purchases and fees on both the primary and add-on cards. Timely payment of dues is essential, as any defaults affect the primary account.

Credit Score Impact

While add-on card transactions don't directly build the add-on cardholder's credit score, any missed payments or high credit utilisation will impact the primary cardholder's credit score. Responsible usage is crucial.

Fees and Charges

Additional fees may apply, such as cash withdrawal charges or foreign transaction fees on add-on cards. These fees are also billed to the primary card, so it’s wise to understand any extra costs associated with add-on use.

Transaction Alerts and Monitoring

Set up alerts for add-on card transactions to receive notifications of every purchase. This feature can help primary cardholders stay updated on spending and manage their budget more effectively.

Issuer-specific Policies

Each issuer may have unique rules regarding add-on card usage, age limits, and the maximum number of add-on cards. Reviewing these policies can prevent misunderstandings and clarify cardholder rights and limitations.

The documentation needed for an add-on credit card application can vary across credit card providers. Here are some commonly requested documents:

• A fully filled and signed application form specifically for add-on cards, usually provided by the issuer

• Know Your Customer (KYC) documents are required to verify the add-on cardholder’s identity and eligibility

• A self-attested copy of identity proof, such as an Aadhaar card, passport, driving licence, ration card, student ID, bank passbook with photo, or any government-recognised ID card

• A document like the Aadhaar card, passport, or birth certificate to verify the add-on cardholder’s age

• Proof of residence, such as a utility bill, Aadhaar card, passport, or rental agreement, to confirm the address of the add-on cardholder

• A copy of the add-on cardholder’s PAN card or a filled Form 60 if they do not have a PAN

• A recent passport-size photo of the add-on card applicant for identification purposes