Debit cards

[Mikeus Caesar]

Just wondering, but in Britain, how old do you have to be to apply for a debit card? I've been getting conflicting results, some places say 16, others 18, while some say it's difficult to get one if you're under 18.

It would be good to know, as i plan to get one to pay for my EVE Online subscription and fuel my addiction. Also because it would be nice to use an ATM whenever i'm caught short of money in town.

[macsen rufus]

I don't honestly know - but even if there is one offered at 16 check the terms and conditions carefully -- some "young persons' accounts" can have higher charges because the banks think they're doing you a favour. Also bear in mind you made need a certain minimum opening balance or monthly deposit.

But a debit card is a wise choice (as opposed to a credit card) as you can only spend money you actually have, and generally can earn interest instead of paying it :2thumbsup:

[InsaneApache]

18.

There are some types of card, ie, Solo, that you can use under 18.

Whatever you do, dont get an AMEX. :sweatdrop:

[Ja'chyra]

Don't pay for Eve online by debit card you should buy timecards, I've got the website for an American company that sells them and because you pay US prices it works out much cheaper, think I pay £19 for 3 months.

If you want the address send me a pm and that'll remind me when I get home.

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

If you get one under 18 it will be Switch or Solo, Visa Electron or some rubbish.

[Ja'chyra]

If you get one under 18 it will be Switch or Solo, Visa Electron or some rubbish.

Doesn't that cover just about all debit cards?

[macsen rufus]

Doesn't that cover just about all debit cards?


No, there's still Visa and Mastercard. Speaking as someone who has to process card payments, the Visa Electron really frightens me - very little security checking.

[Ja'chyra]

They're credit cards as opposed to debit.

[macsen rufus]

My debit cards are both Visa....

[Slyspy]

I believe that you can have a debit card from 16 (or maybe earlier). It will be a Solo or Electron card. These accounts are more restricted, especially regards overdraft facilities and other sorts of credit. They may also have higher charges or penalties because the young user is considered a risk, also they may not be as widely accepted. These cards are also available to people with bad credit ratings, whereas a Visa Debit or Maestro (the old Switch) card will not be.

Credit cards on the other hand are only available to over 18s.

Why are you asking us anyway? Go to you local banks and find out what they offer.

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Doesn't that cover just about all debit cards?

Ah, I shouldn't have put Switch in there. That's a proper card.

Visa Electron and Solo are the U-18 ones.