There is never a right age for a credit card they are life stealers! Teach your child how to save first then make sure they know how to use cash. You would be surprised at how many people can't count back change. Next show them how to budget a checkbook and not to overdraft their accounts.  Most of all if the money isn't in the account don't write the check and explain overdraft fees.  I do believe in having a bank debit card teach them how to use a ATM machine and how to check their balance and they understand not all their transactions might not be showing on the screen. Teach cash principles first it is to easy to get in over your head with a credit card face it they are rarely used for emergancies only.