Kids debit card

You can add money to your account in four ways: using your card in the NatWest Rooster Money app, by bank transfer from your bank account, through the NatWest app, and through online banking.

To add money using your card in the Rooster app:

1. Tap the ‘+’ next to the parent account.

2. Select ‘Add using your debit card’.

3. Choose your amount – you can make payments up to £100 using your card.

4. Select the card you want to use for the top-up. Or select ‘Add card’ to add a new payment card. Enter the CVV for that card.

5. Tap the ‘Top-up’ button at the bottom.

To transfer money from your bank account:

1. Tap the ‘+’ next to the parent account.

2. Select ‘Add from your bank’.

3. You’ll see your account number and sort code.

4. Go to your own banking app to create a transfer to a new payee and enter your Rooster account details.

5. Remember to select a business transfer rather than a personal transfer.

To add money through the mobile banking app:

1. Once you’ve connected your accounts, open your mobile banking app.

2. Select the Rooster Money tile on your NatWest app homepage.

3. Tap ‘Top-up’. Then follow the simple payment journey to top up either the parent account or your kid’s bank card.

To add money through online banking:

1. Once you’ve connected your accounts, log in to your online banking account.

2. Select the Rooster Money tile.

3. Click ‘Top-up account’ and follow the simple payment journey to top up either the parent account or child card.

Like all financial institutions, we have to ensure our customers pass Know Your Client (KYC) checks. This isn’t a credit check – applying for a debit card for kids won’t affect your credit score.

We’ll check your identity and address. If we’re unable to confirm these, we’ll ask for proof of identity such as a passport, or proof of address like a bank statement.

1. Sign up to NatWest Rooster Money and download the app. Make sure you have the latest version of the app. You can get this from your app store.

2. Give your full legal name, date of birth, nationality, home address and email address. You’ll also need to give the first name, date of birth and gender of each child you add to Rooster Money.

3. Once your children are set up, just follow the steps in the app to start a free Rooster Card 30-day trial. Connect your NatWest account and get a free card for as long as you’re a NatWest customer.

Yes, your kids can use their NatWest Rooster Card abroad anywhere that accepts a VISA card, and there's no need to contact us to let us know you're going abroad.

Parents or guardians first need to make sure the spending abroad option is turned on for their child's card in their settings. Open the Rooster Money app and:

1. From the Family Dashboard, select ‘Card’ underneath your child’s profile.

2. Select ‘Card Settings’.

3. Toggle on/off ‘Spending abroad (in-person)’.

The Rooster Card is free to use abroad but some ATMs in other countries may charge their own fees on top of the transaction value.

You’ll find an extensive Help Centre on our Rooster Money website. It offers plenty of information about this children’s bank card and pocket money app.

If you contact the customer service team, please include:

• your name
• the email address used to create your account. 

Our NatWest Rooster Money specialists can help with any questions, queries or complaints you have.

The best debit card for your kids depends on their age and financial confidence.

For example, parents can load up prepaid debit cards in advance, limiting what their children spend. This could teach budgeting skills from a young age, while offering peace of mind.

Meanwhile, older kids and teens may be able to get their own child bank account with a debit card. So, it’s all about making the right choice for your family.

It depends on the bank and product. So, it’s useful to read the terms and conditions, whether you’re after a debit card for kids under 13 or older children.

Our Rooster prepaid debit card is available to kids aged 6-17. Whereas our Adapt child bank account with a debit card is for those aged 11-17. Eligibility criteria apply.

Kids can use our Rooster prepaid card at cash machines, in shops and online. This contactless debit card could also be used on their phone.

For peace of mind, Rooster Cards aren’t accepted in shops that have over-18s merchant codes. For example, betting shops and off-licences. Parents can also set limits on where their kids’ cards are used.