Which debit card should I get for my kids?
Parents looking to set up a debit card for their children often struggle to compare options like Greenlight and Acorns, especially given subscription fees and deciding the right age to start. Without clear peer experiences, it is hard to know whether these paid apps are worth it or if a simple checking account is better.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
Found another way around this?
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Which debit card should I get for my kids?
- 1Using traditional ATM or joint checking accounts from local credit unions or major banks like Capital One and ChaseDid this help you?
- 2Using traditional bank teen checking accounts (e.g., Capital One Teen account)Did this help you?
- 3Using credit union accounts partnered with management services like GreenlightDid this help you?
- 4Setting up automated allowances instead of using chore-tracking featuresDid this help you?
In their words
Unedited, grouped by where they were said, most upvoted first within each place, each linked to the thread it came from.
“I am a little delayed in starting this but I want to open a checking account for my 15 year old.”source ↗
“I cancelled the subscription after a few months. It is now past time for me getting her a card though and I’m wondering if I’m missing out on trying Greenlight again and would love to hear your opinions and advice.”source ↗
“We're thinking of getting our kids a kid debit card to manage allowance and teach personal finance. Anyone have experience with Greenlight MasterCard vs Acorn Visa? Thanks!”source ↗
Where this came up
People with this problem also raised
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- 6How do I choose between multiple credit cards?
- 4Which US business bank account and suppliers should I use for a new LLC?
- 6How to open a bank account without your parents knowing