Do authorized users build credit?

Question

My parent wants to add me as an authorized user on their card. Will this help my credit?

CardCompare Expert · Accepted Answer

Yes — being an authorized user (AU) is one of the fastest ways to build credit! The primary cardholder's account history, payment record, and credit limit appear on your credit report. Benefits: (1) instant credit history from the day the account was opened, (2) low utilization if the primary keeps balances low, (3) no hard inquiry on your report. Caveats: choose someone with excellent payment history and low utilization. If they miss payments, it hurts YOUR score too. Best strategy: get added as AU now, then apply for your own card in 3-6 months.