
Add-On Credit Cards Explained: Benefits, Functionality, and Usage Tips
Posted on Thursday, February 1st, 2024 | By IndusInd Bank
Want to share the benefits of your credit card with your family—without the hassle of applying for multiple new cards? That’s where add-on credit cards come in. Designed to offer financial freedom with control, these secondary cards are issued under your primary credit card account. Whether it’s for your spouse, kids above 18, or even your retired parents, add-on credit cards let you extend your credit limit and lifestyle benefits to them—while you stay in charge.
From dining discounts and reward points to easy spending tracking, add-on cards are a smart way to empower your family while managing all expenses under one account. Let’s break down how they work and why they could be a game-changer for your household budgeting.
Here’s How it Works
An add-on credit card is like a copy of your primary credit card—with its own card number, but linked to the same credit account. The bank issues this card to your family members based on your existing credit profile—no separate credit check or income documents required from the add-on cardholder.
All expenses made via add-on cards are charged to your main account, and you’ll receive a single consolidated bill every month. So whether your sibling is shopping online, your child is paying college fees, or your partner is dining out—you’ll be able to track every swipe from one place.
With IndusInd Bank, you can apply for multiple add-on cards (often up to 3 or more), and they usually come at zero or minimal additional cost. Plus, the benefits of your primary card—such as fuel surcharge waiver, complimentary lounge access, and reward points—are often extended to add-on users too.
Now you can experience our all- new seamless and paperless digital journey to apply for Add-on Credit Card!
Click here to apply.
Click here to view demo.
Also Read: How to Use Credit Card
Things to Know About Add-On Credit Cards
While add-on credit cards bring plenty of convenience, there are a few key points you should keep in mind before issuing one.
Credit Limit
Add-on cards share the overall credit limit of the primary card. So if your card has a ₹1,50,000 limit, that’s the total cap across all transactions—whether by you or any add-on holder. To avoid overspending, many banks (including IndusInd) let you set individual spending caps on each add-on card. It’s a handy way to teach budgeting and keep usage in check.
Credit Score
Since all transactions reflect under the primary cardholder’s name, it’s your credit score on the line. If dues from add-on card usage are not paid in full or on time, it can negatively impact your credit history. On the flip side, responsible usage can help you maintain a strong score—but it won’t help the add-on user build their own credit profile, as they’re not the legal account holder.
Are Add-On Cards Right For You?
Add-on credit cards blend convenience, control, and shared benefits, making them ideal for families who want simplified expense management. Whether you’re equipping your college-going child with financial tools, giving your spouse more spending freedom, or covering medical needs for your parents—these cards offer a flexible way to support your loved ones while you stay in charge.
With features like custom limits, shared perks, and no extra paperwork, add-on credit cards from IndusInd Bank make financial inclusion easy and rewarding. Just remember—while the benefits are shared, so are the responsibilities. Use them wisely, and they’ll serve you well.