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If you’re too young to apply for a credit card, or if your credit score is preventing you from getting a card on your own, consider becoming an authorized user on someone else’s American Express card. American Express authorized users can build credit and get a solid credit card without actually applying for a card on their own.
Does American Express report authorized users to credit bureaus?
Yes. American Express reports authorized users to the three major credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. But the authorized user has to be at least 18 years old. Also, they must provide their Social Security number and date of birth. Otherwise, American Express could cancel their credit card.
Note, American Express refers to its authorized users as additional card members.
What is American Express reporting policy?
American Express will report only the positive information to the authorized user’s credit report. Positive information means timely payments and low utilization rates that help the authorized user build credit.
If the main cardholder becomes delinquent, American Express will stop reporting the authorized user to preserve their credit score.
American Express credit cards with authorized users
$175 for up to three authorized users, then$175for each authorized user thereafter (Terms apply, see rates & fees)
$0 for authorized users with Amex Gold cards
Purchases count toward earning the welcome offer
Earn the same rewards on purchases
Amex Offers, needs enrollment
Pay It feature
Purchase and fraud protection
Global assist hotline
Can use the $200 airline fee credit after selecting an eligible airline
Eligible for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
Which American Express card is the best for adding an authorized user?
The Amex Platinum Card is undoubtedly the best card for adding authorized users because authorized users get to use the card’s perks.
One would think the Amex Gold card is also one of the best cards for authorized users, but unfortunately, they won’t get to use any additional perks.
How to add an authorized user to any American Express card
You can easily add authorized users online. Here’s how:
Log in to your account.
Scroll down your account’s home page until you find Useful links on the right.
Click on Add someone to your account.
Note: You can also add authorized users by calling the number on the back of your card.
How to remove an authorized user from any American Express card
In most cases, you’ll have to speak with customer service to remove authorized users from your Amex credit card.
Call the number on the back of your card.
Request to remove an authorized user from your card.
Provide the necessary information.
Note: Authorized users can also request to be removed from the main cardholder by calling Amex customer service.
American Express authorized user pros and cons
Pros
Authorized user can build credit
Authorized user can help earn the main cardholder’s welcome offer faster
Authorized user can earn rewards if it’s a rewards card
Cons
Main cardholder is liable for the debt incurred by authorized users
Authorized users may not always get the same benefits as the main cardholder
If you’re older than 18 and you want to build your credit score, consider secured or student credit cards. But if you already have a good credit score or higher, you can apply for most credit cards and even earn rewards on your purchases.
Kliment Dukovski is a credit cards and investments writer. He's written over 600 articles to help readers find and compare the best credit cards. Kliment has also written on money transfers, home loans and more. Previously, he ghostwrote guides and articles on foreign exchange, stock market trading and cryptocurrencies.
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