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The Daily Insight Hub

Can you be an authorized user while in Chapter 13?

Author

Matthew Harrington

Updated on February 06, 2026

Can I be an authorized user on a credit card while in chapter 13 bankruptcy? You can be an authorized user on someone else’s credit card. If you have not signed any agreement, whereby you are obliged to pay the balances on that account, the debt is not yours.

Can I be an authorized user on more than one credit card?

You can add additional users to your account at any time, for cards that allow it. Some credit card companies will even let you add authorized users during your initial account application. We have a set of specific instructions for adding authorized users for each card issuer.

What happens to my credit if my authorized user files bankruptcy?

Because your authorized user isn’t financially responsible for charges to the account, your credit report won’t be damaged if he or she declares bankruptcy. However, if your joint account holder files, the credit account would be included in the bankruptcy proceedings.

How does being an authorized user on a credit card affect your credit?

How can being an authorized user affect your credit? Being an authorized user can affect your credit in a few ways. The accounts that you’re an authorized user on will likely appear on your credit reports — most, but not all, credit card issuers report account activity to an authorized user’s credit reports.

Can a parent be an authorized user on a credit card?

If your parent has established a positive credit history and healthy habits that won’t backfire on you, you may want to request that they add you as an authorized user. Joint accounts are more commonly used by spouses who share their finances with each other and don’t mind each person having the same credit limit.

What happens if the authorized user or joint account holder goes bankrupt?

However, if your potential authorized user declared bankruptcy after racking up a large amount of credit card debt, it’s a good idea to consider whether you trust his or her judgment when it comes to spending. You’ll be liable for any charges made on your credit account. What happens if my current authorized user or joint cardholder goes bankrupt?