Which name(s) to put credit card in?

M_Haz · 2 November 2014 at 2:15AM

Hi, my wife and I would like to get a credit card for general spending (which we will pay off in full every month). We want to use the BA/Amex Avios card so we can collect Avios points.

What I'd like to know is who's name should I put it in?

Currently we have one main joint current account with Santander. I have 2 more accounts in my name, plus we have an ISA in my name. We also have 2 other credit cards, both in my name.

Currently I am the only one working in our family, but my wife is probably going to be the main user of the card, so does it make sense to put it in her name, or is she unlikely to qualify because she doesn't have a job? Well, I should clarify: She is on maternity leave currently, but won't be going back when it ends. The other thing is, my wife is Canadian and has been here since 2010, so she doesn't have quite as long a credit history as me.

Thanks.

[Deleted User] · 2 November 2014 at 8:08AM

You'll have to apply. Add her as an additiobal cardholder.

planteria · 2 November 2014 at 9:03AM

that seems to be the right advice to me:)

M_Haz · 2 November 2014 at 9:09AM

Thanks. If I do that, would she get her own physical card or would she have to take mine around with her?

pvt · 2 November 2014 at 9:16AM

You need to apply for an additional card for her.

M_Haz · 2 November 2014 at 10:13AM

Perfect, thanks. Thanks everyone for all the tips!

Gizmo247 · 2 November 2014 at 11:09AM

She will get her own card. Depending on the supplier, her card will either be identical to yours (same card number) but with a different name, pin and CVV code on the back or it will appear to be a completely unique card. No real difference but the latter is better as you get separate online verification and traceability but not worth persuing in it's own right.