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The Daily Insight Hub

Does removing an authorized user hurt their credit?

Author

Rachel Davis

Updated on January 23, 2026

You’re generally able to remove yourself as an authorized user by calling the credit card issuer and requesting the change. The account will no longer appear on your credit report, and its activity will not be factored into your credit scores.

What are the risks associated with having being an authorized user on a credit card?

You are solely responsible for charges made to the card. Additionally, because your credit utilization ratio — the amount you owe compared to your overall credit limit — makes up 30% of your FICO Score, your credit score can be negatively impacted if the authorized user racks up a large amount of debt.

What are the cons of adding an authorized user?

The cons of being an authorized user

  • The account holder’s actions can negatively impact your credit. If the credit cardholder misses payments or racks up a lot of debt on the card, it could negatively impact your credit.
  • They can remove you at any time.
  • It could cause relationship issues.

How is an authorized user liable for credit card debt?

Though the credit company won’t run a credit check on the person you wish to add, it will likely need the user’s personal information, such as name, address, Social Security number, etc. Can an authorized user be held liable for the cardholder’s debt?

What does it mean to be an authorized user of a credit card?

Being an authorized user means you can use someone else’s credit card in your name. You can make purchases and use the card as if it were your own, but you’re not the primary account holder. To make you an authorized user, the primary account holder simply adds your name to their credit card account,…

How can I remove an authorized user from my account?

As primary cardholder, you can remove the authorized user from your account anytime. Typically, you’ll call your credit card issuer’s customer service department and make the request. If the authorized user has your credit card number, you should ask for a new card. Once the authorized user is removed, he or she no longer can spend on your account.

Do you get credit report if you are an authorized user?

Not all banks and card issuers provide authorized users’ card payments to the credit reporting bureaus. Before you go through the approval process, check with the main account holder to confirm that your payment history will get reported.