What is Authorized User?
Credit Card Glossary · Updated April 2026
Someone who is added to a credit card account by the primary cardholder. Authorized users receive their own card and can make purchases, but the primary cardholder is responsible for all charges. The account's history may appear on the authorized user's credit report, which can help build credit.
Frequently asked questions
What is Authorized User?⌄
Someone who is added to a credit card account by the primary cardholder.
What does Authorized User mean on a credit card?⌄
Someone who is added to a credit card account by the primary cardholder. Authorized users receive their own card and can make purchases, but the primary cardholder is responsible for all charges. The account's history may appear on the authorized user's credit report, which can help build credit.
What terms are related to Authorized User?⌄
Closely related concepts include Primary Cardholder, Credit Score. Each of these helps clarify different aspects of the same topic.
Where does Authorized User apply?⌄
Authorized User is a account management concept. It typically appears in the context of balance management, payments, and card lifecycle.
More account management terms
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