What happens if someone steals and uses my credit card?
Sarah Martinez
Updated on January 23, 2026
In the event of the theft or unauthorized use of your credit card, federal law states that you’re liable for a maximum of $50 in fraudulent charges. If you report the card’s theft before any fraudulent use occurs, you’ll bear zero liability.
Can you use someone else’s card with their permission?
On Wednesday, we explained that while it’s not illegal to give someone permission to use your card, you are in breach of your card contract with your bank. There’s no risk if you’re the one using someone else’s card.
What’s the punishment for using someone else’s credit card?
The penalties for credit card fraud in California can vary depending on the circumstances and severity of the case. On the low end, it is a year in county jail and a $1,000 fine. On the high end, it is punishable by up to three years in county jail and a $10,000 fine. Credit card fraud is also a federal offense.
Can you press charges for someone stealing your credit card?
Report the fraud to the local police department. Credit card fraud is a crime. While the company investigates the crime, police involvement is necessary to capture the culprit and press charges.
Is it a crime to use someone else’s credit card?
Using someone else’s credit card with permission is not a crime. He would have to prove that you used the cards without his permission or knowledge. Your ex was breaking the terms of the contracts he signed with his banks when he let you use his cards.
What happens when you give someone permission to use your debit card?
When you give someone permission to use your debit or credit card, it may be difficult to recover funds from unexpected purchases because the usage may not be considered unauthorized.
What can happen if I Use Somebody Else’s credit?
A typical scenario is that the cardholder gives somebody permission to use a card for a specific purpose, and then one of three things happens:
What to do if someone asks to use your credit card?
If there is no specific instruction for granting permission for card use, it’s a good idea for the cardholder to give a signed note to the borrower granting them permission to use the card. If a merchant finds out that you aren’t the cardholder and questions you, present the note as an explanation.