Coin-trip.com

Key Insights at a Glance

• The CARD Act of 2009 coupled with updated CFPB guidelines empowers applicants to include their spouse’s income when applying for credit cards.
• Credit card applications often lack clarity on income definitions, making it tricky to spot explicit instructions about spousal income.
• Regardless of how applications are worded, listing your partner’s income remains lawful if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Concerned about qualifying for a credit card due to limited or zero personal earnings? Good news — you can tap into your spouse or partner’s income during the application process.

This development stems from the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act, which legalized the use of combined household income for credit card applications and requests for credit limit increases. To take advantage of this rule, applicants must be at least 21 years old and have “reasonable access” to their partner’s earnings.

Why Household Income Matters

The option to factor in household income can turn the tide for many families — especially those in which one partner is a stay-at-home spouse caring for children while the other earns a paycheck. Before the 2013 amendments, individuals reporting zero personal income often found themselves denied credit card approval.

Disparity in earnings between partners also becomes less of a hurdle. For instance, if one spouse pulls in $20,000 annually and the other $150,000, both are positioned equally in credit access thanks to the ability to declare household income.

According to recent data, over 60% of U.S. adults aged 21+ rely on combined household earnings when applying for new credit lines, amplifying their purchasing power and credit approval odds.

Credit Cards That Welcome Household Income

In practice, due to CFPB’s ruling, virtually all credit card issuers consider household income during application reviews, though the phrasing of income-related queries varies widely. Below are some prominent examples:

• Citi Double Cash® Card: The application instructs applicants to “Include all income available to you,” offering examples without explicitly mentioning spousal or household income.
• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Their application distinguishes between applicants under and over 21, stating those 21 and older may incorporate income from others they have access to, while younger applicants can include amounts regularly deposited into their accounts.
• Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card: Features a note above the gross income box clarifying that applicants 21 or older “may include income from others you can reasonably access to pay your bills.”

No matter which card you opt for, you’re free to count household income on your application as long as you satisfy CFPB’s conditions: age 21+ and reasonable income access from a spouse or partner.

Note: Information regarding the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card was last updated on May 21, 2025.

Why Do Credit Card Companies Ask About Your Income?

Though the exact criteria credit card issuers use to approve applications are often guarded as trade secrets, it’s common knowledge that income figures heavily influence their lending decisions.

Is Proof of Income Required for Credit Cards?

Unlike loans or mortgages, which typically demand pay stubs and tax returns, credit card applications rarely necessitate documented proof of income. This streamlined approach enables many issuers to greenlight applications within minutes online, with some instantly providing digital card numbers for immediate use.

That said, honesty on your application is crucial. While banks might not always audit your stated income if you maintain responsible card usage, falsifying income details can be classified as bank fraud — a serious offense carrying hefty fines or even incarceration.

Benefits of Holding Your Own Credit Card

If you’re pondering whether to get a credit card in your own name rather than being an authorized user, consider the advantages:

1. Reduced Dependency: Holding your own card puts you in control, eliminating feelings of financial dependence or oversight by another person.
2. Discretion: Manage personal expenses like gifts or private purchases without sharing those transactions with others.
3. Individual Rewards: Build your own stash of points or cash back. Many premier cards offer welcome bonuses exceeding $200, helping jump-start your rewards portfolio.

Summary

Even if you don’t draw a paycheck but have “reasonable access” to your spouse or partner’s income, you can leverage this to secure a credit card. This policy is particularly empowering for stay-at-home parents, caregivers, or adults living with family.

By including household income on your application, you improve your chances of approval and may qualify for some of the top credit cards available, depending on your credit score and financial profile.