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A dual credit card generally refers to when supplementary credit cards are provided to one cardholder to allow additional cardholders to use them. This is typically done in an effort to gain additional reward points by combining the spending of both cards to the one account.

There is not equal liability in the case of supplementary credit cards. For example, a primary card holder may decide to get their spouse a supplementary card in the spouse’s name and keep it attached to the primary card account. Anything the spouse buys, or any credit card bills they don’t pay, the primary cardholder is responsible for.

A dual credit card may also refer to when you bundle more than one type of card, such as Mastercard and AMEX, with the one card account, to potentially earn a range of different benefits and rewards from both. We will explore this concept further in this page.

The approach of using dual credit cards for whatever reason can offer greater rewards but still be fraught with risk. It is crucial you do your research and understand these potential benefits and downsides before applying.

A supplementary cardholder will have access to pretty much all of the same features of a credit card, including:

• Making purchases
• Earning rewards points
• Earning frequent flyer points
• Own personal identification number (PIN) separate to the primary cardholder
• Access to the credit card balance
• Access to the credit card transaction history
• Making payments
• Cancelling the card

In terms of credit card perks and protections, be aware that some insurances are generally reserved for the primary cardholder. Some credit cards do extend these protections across all cardholders, so check the terms and conditions for more information before you apply.

Keep in mind that purchases made by the additional cardholder are the responsibility of the primary cardholder, as are meeting repayments on time and avoiding falling into debt.

There are a few risks to consider before applying for supplementary credit cards.

• Hurting relationships

First and foremost, mixing money with friends, family or partners can result in strained relationships and additional financial stress. Always keep that in mind before you proceed with a supplementary card. Consider talking to the potential cardholder first and working out exactly how they plan on meeting credit card repayments each month. If just that conversation feels impossible, then it may be a sign it’s not worth risking inviting them on to your credit card account.

•  Supplementary card costs

Not all supplementary cards are free. In fact, a typical supplementary card fee can cost between $9 - $100. If you aren’t expecting the potential cost, it may come to some shock. Further, the card will come with the same purchase interest rate and cash advance rate as the primary cardholder’s card. It may be easy for someone to rack up debt under your card account details.

•  Liability is with primary cardholder

The biggest risk of using supplementary credit cards is that the risk is on the primary cardholder to manage repayments on time and avoid falling into debt. If you find out the supplementary card holder has maxed out the credit card and is unable to help with repayments, the primary cardholder will be the one with their credit score impaired, and potentially being chased by debt collectors.

Another form of dual credit cards is when card providers allow you to bundle two types of cards with the one account.

For those who aren’t able to decide between Mastercard or American Express, Westpac has created the Black Bundle. Cardholders get access to both Westpac Altitude Black Mastercards and American Express Westpac Altitude Black cards. 

Cardholders can choose between:

• Altitude Rewards, to be exchanged within the Westpac Rewards program.
• Altitude Qantas, earning Qantas frequent flyer points for your Qantas account.

This may be a competitive option for Australians wanting the high earn rate of American Express points, as well as the availability of using a more widely accepted Mastercard. Keep in mind that purchase rates, cash advance rates and ongoing fees will still apply, so ensure this card bundle sits within your budget and suits your specific financial situation before applying.