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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Can a request to become an authorized user be denied?

Yes, a request to become an authorized user can be denied. The primary cardholder has the final say in whether or not to add someone as an authorized user. They may deny a request for a variety of reasons, such as:

  • The person has a poor credit score.
  • The person is not a close friend or family member.
  • The person is not responsible enough to handle a credit card.

If you’re denied a request to become an authorized user, you can try to improve your credit score and reapply later. You can also ask the primary cardholder to reconsider their decision.

Do authorized users have spending limits?

Yes, authorized users can have spending limits. The primary cardholder can set a spending limit for each authorized user. This limit can be a dollar amount or a percentage of the primary cardholder's credit limit.

Spending limits can be a helpful way to manage authorized users' spending and to protect the primary cardholder from debt.

Is an authorized user the same as a joint account holder on a credit card?

No, an authorized user is not the same as a joint account holder on a credit card. An authorized user is someone who is allowed to use a credit card account that is not their own. The primary cardholder is the one who is responsible for the account and for making all of the payments.

Joint account holders are both responsible for an account and for making all of the payments. If one joint account holder fails to make a payment, the other joint account holder will be held responsible.

Can the primary cardholder remove me once I’ve been approved as an authorized user?

Yes, the primary cardholder can remove you once you’ve been approved as an authorized user. The primary cardholder has the right to add or remove authorized users at any time. If you’re removed as an authorized user, you’ll no longer have access to the credit card account. 

Resources

Building and maintaining good credit can be challenging, but there are a number of nonprofit and government resources available to help you along the way. 

  • Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The CFPB is a government agency that offers a variety of resources to help consumers manage their credit. Their website features articles and guides on topics like building credit, improving your credit score, and disputing errors on your credit report.
  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC is another government agency that offers resources to help consumers manage their credit. They offer guidance on credit reports, credit scores, and credit repair. They also provide information on how to avoid scams and protect your credit information from fraud.
  • National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). The NFCC is a nonprofit organization that offers a variety of services to help consumers manage their credit. They offer free credit counseling, debt management plans, and financial education resources.
  • Credit Counseling Services. Many nonprofit credit counseling services offer free or low-cost credit counseling services. These services can help you develop a budget, manage your debt, and improve your credit score.
  • AnnualCreditReport.com. This website is the only official source for obtaining your free annual credit report from the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). 

About the Authors

Christopher Murray

Written by: Christopher Murray

Personal Finance Expert

Christopher Murray is a professional personal finance and sustainability writer and editor who enjoys writing about everything from budgeting and saving to unique investing options like SRI and cryptocurrency.

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