How to Add and Remove Authorized Users on Chase Credit Cards: A Comprehensive Guide

Adding an authorized user to your Chase credit card can be a great way to help a family member build credit, earn more rewards, or simplify household spending. However, it’s important to understand the process and implications before making this decision. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about adding and removing authorized users on Chase credit cards.

What is an Authorized User?

An authorized user is someone who has permission to use your credit card account. They receive their own card with their name on it, linked to your account. As the primary cardholder, you remain responsible for all charges made on the account, including those made by authorized users.

Benefits of Adding an Authorized User

1. Help build credit: The account history reports on the authorized user’s credit report, potentially helping them establish or improve their credit score.
2. Earn more rewards: Purchases made by authorized users earn rewards, allowing you to accumulate points or cashback faster.
3. Simplify household finances: Combining spending on one account can make budgeting and expense tracking easier.
4. Provide financial access: It’s a way to give trusted individuals spending power without opening a new account.

Risks to Consider

1. Financial responsibility: You’re liable for all charges made by authorized users.
2. Credit score impact: Late payments or high balances affect both your credit and the authorized user’s.
3. Potential misuse: Authorized users could overspend or use the card irresponsibly.

How to Add an Authorized User to Your Chase Credit Card

Adding an authorized user to your Chase card is a straightforward process:

1. Log in to your Chase online account.
2. Select the credit card account you want to share.
3. Click on “More” and then “Account services.”
4. Choose “Authorized users.”
5. Select “Get started.”
6. Fill out the form with the authorized user’s information:
   • Full name
   • Date of birth
   • Street address
   • Zip code
7. Review and submit the information.

Chase will then mail the new card to the primary cardholder’s address.

Chase Cards That Allow Authorized Users

Most Chase credit cards allow you to add authorized users. Here’s a breakdown of some popular cards and their associated fees:

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: No fee for authorized users
2. Chase Sapphire Reserve®: $75 annual fee per authorized user
3. Chase Freedom Flex℠: No fee for authorized users
4. Chase Freedom Unlimited®: No fee for authorized users

It’s worth noting that while most Chase cards offer free authorized user additions, premium cards like the Sapphire Reserve may charge a fee due to the additional benefits extended to these users.

How to Remove an Authorized User from Your Chase Credit Card

Unlike adding an authorized user, removing one cannot be done online. To remove an authorized user:

1. Call Chase using the number on the back of your credit card.
2. Inform the representative that you want to remove an authorized user.
3. Provide the necessary account information and the name of the authorized user you wish to remove.

Alternatively, you can send a secure message through your Chase online account:

1. Log in to your Chase account.
2. Click on the “Main Menu” icon.
3. Go to your secure messages inbox.
4. Compose a new message detailing which authorized user you want to remove from which account.

Effects of Removing an Authorized User

When you remove an authorized user:

1. Their card will be deactivated immediately.
2. They will no longer have access to make purchases on the account.
3. The account may stop appearing on their credit report, potentially affecting their credit score.

It’s important to monitor your credit report after removing an authorized user to ensure the change is reflected accurately.

Conclusion

Adding an authorized user to your Chase credit card can be a beneficial strategy for families, couples, or even business partners. It offers opportunities for credit building, rewards maximization, and simplified financial management. However, it’s crucial to understand the responsibilities and potential risks involved.

Before adding an authorized user, have an open discussion about expectations, spending limits, and payment responsibilities. Regularly monitor the account activity and communicate openly about any concerns. Remember, as the primary cardholder, you’re ultimately responsible for all charges on the account.

If circumstances change or you need to remove an authorized user, Chase provides straightforward options to do so. Whether through a phone call or secure message, you can quickly adjust your account to suit your needs.

FAQs About Chase Authorized Users

Q: Does Chase offer bonus points for adding an authorized user? 

A: Chase typically doesn’t offer bonus points for adding authorized users. However, you’ll earn rewards on purchases made by authorized users at the regular rate for your card.

Q: Can you add authorized users to Chase debit cards or checking accounts? 

A: Chase doesn’t allow authorized users on debit cards or checking accounts. However, you can add a joint account holder to a checking account, which gives them full access to the account.

Q: Can you place a spending limit on an authorized user? 

A: Chase doesn’t allow you to set specific spending limits for authorized users through your online account. However, you can lock and unlock both your card and authorized user cards to control spending.

Q: How old does an authorized user need to be? 

A: While Chase doesn’t specify a minimum age for authorized users, many issuers require them to be at least 13 years old. It’s best to check with Chase directly for their specific policy.

Q: Will adding an authorized user affect my credit score? 

A: Adding an authorized user doesn’t directly impact your credit score. However, their spending habits can affect your credit utilization ratio, which is a factor in credit scoring.

Q: Can an authorized user build credit history? 

A: Yes, being an authorized user can help build credit history. The account activity will typically be reported on the authorized user’s credit report, potentially helping them establish or improve their credit score.

Q: Are authorized users responsible for paying the credit card bill? 

A: No, the primary cardholder is solely responsible for paying the credit card bill, including charges made by authorized users.