Pros and cons of joint credit cards

What is a joint credit card?

A joint credit card is one that’s held in the name of two people. Both of these people will need to apply and be approved for it, and they will be jointly responsible for paying off any debts incurred.

Typically, individuals who hold a joint credit card will each have a physical card linked to the one line of credit. They will have equal access to funds, with the ability to spend money up to a limit set by the lender.

The Australian Government’s MoneySmart website advises credit card users that when you have a joint account you will share responsibility for any debts connected to that account. You will also both bear the consequences of being unable to repay that debt, which can include a bad credit report.

Joint credit card vs additional cardholder

A joint credit card is different to a credit card that has a nominated additional cardholder (or cardholders). Additional cardholders also receive a physical credit card and are able to use it with few or no restrictions, but they do not typically carry any liability for the debt of the card. The primary cardholder is responsible for paying the debt (including any spending made by the additional cardholder).

How do you apply for a joint credit card?

The process of applying for a joint credit card is similar to the process of applying as an individual, except for the fact that two people are applying. Both applicants will need to be at least 18 years or older and be Australian citizens or permanent residents.

It may be possible to apply online, by calling the lender or visiting a branch if the lender has one. Bear in mind that some lenders may require you to visit a branch if you wish to open a joint credit card, in order to do it in person.

Generally speaking, when applying for a credit card, the lender will ask to see supporting materials such as proof of income (typically in the form of payslips) and a breakdown of your regular expenses, as well as any assets and liabilities you might have. When applying for a joint credit card, the income, expenses and assets of both applicants will be considered.

When you apply, it’s likely that a lender will also consider your credit score: a number that represents your record as a borrower. When you apply for a joint credit card, the lender will likely consider the credit scores of both applicants.

Can you get a joint credit card in Australia?

Joint credit cards are available in Australia, however if you wish to apply for one, your options may be limited as only a small range of providers may offer them. If you wish to share a credit card with another person, you may therefore need to consider other options. As an example, a credit-card holder may be able to add another person to their account as an additional or subsidiary user of the card, although the primary card-holder would be liable for repayments.

What are the pros of a joint credit card?

Some potential advantages of a joint credit card include the possibility to save on fees, and holding each-other accountable for spending.

• Potential to save on fees. If you and your partner each have a credit card, then it’s likely that you will each individually be paying costs such as annual fees and other charges. One advantage of a joint credit card could be the ability to pay just one set of fees instead of multiple ones – cutting down on your cumulative costs.
• Potential to hold each other accountable. Depending on what you primarily use your credit card for, a joint credit card which gives both parties access to the statement and responsibility for the bill, could be a way to hold each-other financially accountable.

What are the cons of a joint credit card?

Potential things to be wary of when considering a joint credit card include the smaller range of options available to you, the potential for disagreements about money and the potential for you or your partner to negatively impact each-other’s credit score.

• A smaller range of options. If you wish to take out a joint credit card, you may find your options to be relatively limited, as not all providers offer them. This means that, when comparing joint credit cards, you could find that you’re missing out on certain features such as a more favourable purchase rate or interest-free period.
• Potential for disagreements about money. According to Canstar’s Love and Money Report, finance can be a source of tension for couples. A survey of 1,049 Aussies found that nearly one in 10 people in a relationship resents their partner for not contributing more to joint finances, while 5% of all those surveyed have a secret credit card their partner does not know about.
• Possible negative impact on credit score. If your credit history shows things such as late or missed credit card payments, then your credit score could be negatively affected. If you share a card with your partner and you overspend, or you end up in a situation where you are faced with a large amount of debt in your name because of your partner’s spending, your credit score will take a hit. While it is possible to improve your credit score, it is worth being wary of these things and considering your and your partner’s ability to manage money before applying for a joint credit card.

What are some alternatives to a joint credit card?

If you and your partner wish to combine finances but do not want to have a joint credit card, a joint transaction account may be a possible alternative. This could have several of the advantages mentioned above – such as the ability to save on fees, manage spending and joint payments – and would allow you to spend your own money rather than take on debt.

Likewise, if you wish to use a credit card but only have one person’s name, some lenders will give the option of a credit card account with a ‘primary’ and ‘secondary’ (or ‘additional’) cardholder. In this situation, the primary cardholder’s name would be on the account, and they would be the one responsible for repaying any debts.

When considering a joint credit card, it could be worthwhile having a discussion to find out whether you and your partner are on the same page about finance and spending habits. This includes whether you feel you can comfortably manage a joint card together and whether you are prepared to be liable for debts in their name as well as your own.

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