When should I avoid being listed as an authorized user?

May 19, 2020

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4 min read

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TPG reader Frankie sent me a message on Facebook to ask about improving his credit score:

[pullquote]"I recently realized that my credit score has dropped because of one of my parents' credit cards. I was added as an authorized user long ago, and now they have a high balance on that account. Will removing myself as an authorized user get that card instantly wiped from my credit history, thus increasing my score?"[/pullquote]

You can benefit from adding an authorized user to your credit card account, but there are also some risks and nuances involved. Likewise, being added as an authorized user can be an asset or a liability depending on whether the primary cardholder manages the account responsibly and what your goals are. Their account activity can show up on your credit report, so things such as missed payments or high balances can impact your score. Fortunately, getting yourself removed from a troubled account is a straightforward process.

Related reading: How credit scores work

Look for cards with an introductory offer for balance transfers, such as the Chase Freedom (No longer open to new applicants). (Photo by John Gribben for The Points Guy)

The information for the Chase Freedom has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

In Frankie's case, I would try to find a way to lower the balance on his parents' account before he removes himself from it entirely. One option would be to have them open a new card that offers a 0% APR balance transfer. That would help them avoid paying interest on the existing balance (at least temporarily), and they could then keep that card and its long history active on Frankie's credit report, so he can maintain the average age of his accounts.

Related Reading: 5 ways to use credit cards responsibly

If that approach won't work, then Frankie can get himself taken off the account. As an authorized user, this may be as simple as calling the number on the back of your card and asking to be removed. However, some card issuers only allow the primary cardholder to make such a request, so you might have to get that person to call on your behalf.

Once you've been removed as an authorized user, the account may still show up on a credit report (as closed), but the balance should no longer be factored into your credit utilization ratio. In some cases you can get the account completely removed from your credit history, but only if the card issuer requests it. The effect won't be instantaneous either way, but you should see an uptick in your credit score within a month or two.

Related reading: How to improve your credit score

Look to remove as an authorized user if the account is dragging down your credit score. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.

Keep in mind that the process is very different if you're a joint account holder rather than just an added user. In that case, you're equally responsible for any authorized charges, so you (or someone) would have to pay down the balance before you could close the account.

If you have any other questions, please tweet me @thepointsguy, message me on Facebook or send me an email at info@thepointsguy.com.

Additional reporting by Benét J. Wilson

Featured image by SHUTTERSTOCK

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.