Being an authorized user on an account can help a person start building their credit history, but only if the credit card company reports the authorized-user account to the national credit reporting companies. An authorized user can make purchases using the account but isn’t responsible for repaying the debt.
What companies report authorized users?
The issuer’s policy. All major issuers NerdWallet surveyed reported authorized user activity to the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion — in some form….Issuer policies.
| Issuer | Does the issuer report authorized user activity to the credit bureaus? |
|---|---|
| Citi | Yes. |
| Chase | Yes. |
Does Bank of America report authorized users?
Bank of America will report authorized users to all three of the major credit bureaus – TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian – soon after they’re added to a primary cardholder’s account. Also, both the authorized user and the primary cardholder can request to have the user removed from the account at any time.
Does Barclay report authorized users?
Yes, Barclays reports authorized users to credit bureaus. Barclays will report authorized users who are at least 13 years old to all three of the major credit bureaus – TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian – soon after they’re added to a primary cardholder’s account.
Do you need a social security number to add an authorized user?
In most cases, you’ll need to provide the authorized user’s date of birth and Social Security number (SSN) for the credit bureaus to update their file. American Express, Bank of America and Discover, for example, require this information in order to add an authorized user.
Will my credit score drop if I add an authorized user?
Does adding an authorized user hurt your credit? Adding an authorized user to your credit card account alone shouldn’t have a negative impact on your credit. But keep in mind that if that person uses your credit irresponsibly, negative credit impact could follow.
