Have you ever wanted to share the benefits of your American Express card with a trusted family member or friend? Adding an authorized user to your American Express card is a fantastic way to extend your card's perks, help someone build credit, and simplify household spending. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you understand every step and all the implications.
Understanding Authorized Users on American Express
Before diving into the "how-to," let's clarify what an authorized user is and isn't. An authorized user is someone you grant permission to use your American Express credit card account. They receive their own physical card with their name on it, linked to your primary account.
It's crucial to understand that as the primary cardholder, you remain 100% responsible for all charges made by authorized users. This includes their purchases, annual fees (if any), and ensuring payments are made on time. Authorized users are not legally responsible for the debt. This differs significantly from a joint account holder, where both parties are equally liable for the debt. American Express generally does not offer joint accounts in the same way some other issuers might.
Why Add an Authorized User?
There are several compelling reasons to add an authorized user:
Credit Building: For younger individuals or those new to credit, being an authorized user on a well-managed American Express account can be a great way to establish or improve their credit history. The account's payment history and credit limit can appear on their credit reports, potentially boosting their score if the account is kept in good standing.
Shared Benefits: Depending on your specific Amex card, authorized users can often access many of the same premium benefits you enjoy, such as:
Airport lounge access (e.g., Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, Delta Sky Clubs).
Hotel elite status.
Rental car elite status.
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credits.
Purchase protection and extended warranty.
Access to Amex Offers.
Earning Membership Rewards points (all points earned by authorized users typically accrue to the primary cardholder's account).
Convenience and Budgeting: It can simplify household finances, allowing family members to make purchases without needing cash or separate cards. Some Amex cards even allow you to set spending limits for authorized users, offering a degree of control.
Emergency Access: In an emergency, an authorized user can access funds if you're unable to.
Things to Consider Before Adding an Authorized User
While beneficial, there are important considerations:
Trust is Paramount: Since you're ultimately responsible for all charges, only add someone you fully trust to manage their spending responsibly.
Annual Fees: Many premium American Express cards charge an additional annual fee for authorized users. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of your specific card to understand any associated costs.
Impact on Your Credit: While adding an authorized user doesn't directly impact your credit, their spending habits can. If they overspend and your credit utilization increases significantly, or if payments are missed (because of their spending), your credit score could be negatively affected.
Minimum Age: American Express generally requires authorized users to be at least 13 years of age. Some benefits, like lounge access, may have higher age restrictions.
Step 1: Engage and Evaluate - Who Will Be Your Trusted User?
Before you even log into your Amex account, the very first and most crucial step is to decide who you will add as an authorized user and have an open, honest conversation with them.
This isn't just about getting their name and date of birth; it's about establishing clear expectations and understanding.
1.1 Choose Wisely
Think carefully about who you're considering. Is it a spouse, an adult child, or a trusted family member? Their financial maturity and responsibility are key. Remember, any debt they incur on the card becomes your responsibility.
1.2 The Crucial Conversation
Once you have a person in mind, sit down with them and discuss the following:
Your Expectations: Clearly state your expectations regarding their spending. Will there be a spending limit you set with American Express? Do you expect them to repay you for their purchases? How and when will that happen?
Benefits They'll Receive: Explain the specific benefits they'll gain access to (e.g., lounge access, car rental status, purchase protection). This can be a significant motivator and highlight the value of being an authorized user.
Their Responsibilities: Emphasize that while they can use the card, the primary responsibility for the bill lies with you. Discuss the importance of timely payments to maintain your good credit.
Credit Impact (for them): Explain how being an authorized user can help them build credit, especially if they are new to credit or working to improve their score. It's a powerful tool, but it requires responsible use.
Annual Fees (if applicable): Be transparent about any additional annual fees for adding an authorized user to your specific card. Decide who will be responsible for this fee.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Information
Now that you've had the conversation and made your decision, it's time to collect the essential details for the authorized user. Having this information ready will make the online or phone application process much smoother.
2.1 Key Information You'll Need
You'll typically need the following for each authorized user you want to add:
Full Legal Name: As it appears on their government-issued ID.
Date of Birth: To verify they meet the minimum age requirement.
Social Security Number (SSN): While sometimes optional to begin the process, Amex often requires the SSN within 60 days for the account to be fully reported to credit bureaus, which is crucial for credit building.
Relationship to Primary Cardholder: (e.g., spouse, child, parent).
Residential Address: (Optional, but sometimes requested for their card delivery).
Step 3: Access Your American Express Account
American Express offers a few convenient ways to add an authorized user. The most common and often quickest methods are online or by phone.
3.1 Online: The Easiest Path (Recommended)
This is usually the most straightforward and fastest way.
Log In: Go to the official American Express website (americanexpress.com) and log in to your primary card account using your user ID and password.
Tip: Ensure you are on the secure, official American Express website to protect your personal information.
Navigate to Account Services: Once logged in, look for a section or tab typically labeled "Account Services" or "Account Management." The exact wording might vary slightly depending on your card product and the website's current layout.
Find "Add Someone to Your Account": Within Account Services, you should find an option like "Add Someone to Your Account," "Add an Additional Card Member," or similar. Click on this link.
3.2 By Phone: A Personal Touch
If you prefer speaking to a representative or encounter any issues online, calling American Express customer service is always an option.
Locate Your Card's Customer Service Number: The best number to call is usually found on the back of your American Express card.
Dial and Follow Prompts: Call the number and follow the automated prompts to connect with a customer service representative.
Request to Add an Authorized User: Inform the representative that you wish to add an authorized user to your account. They will guide you through the process and ask for the necessary information.
Step 4: Complete the Application Form ✍️
Whether online or by phone, you'll be prompted to fill out an application form with the authorized user's details.
4.1 Inputting Authorized User Information ℹ️
Enter the Information: Carefully input the full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security Number (if providing it now) of the authorized user. Double-check for any typos to avoid delays.
Select Card Type (if applicable): For some American Express cards, you might have the option to choose a different card design or a "Companion Card" which may have different benefits or fees. For example, with the Platinum Card, you can add a Platinum-level authorized user (which typically incurs a fee) or a Companion Card (which may be free but offers fewer benefits).
Set Spending Limits (Optional but Recommended) : American Express allows you to set spending limits for authorized users on many cards. This is a highly recommended feature, especially if you're adding a younger individual or someone new to managing credit. Look for an option like "Manage Spending Limits for Additional Card Members" within your online account or ask the representative about it. You can often set limits as low as $200.
4.2 Review and Confirm
Before submitting, take a moment to review all the entered information. Ensure accuracy to prevent any issues with card delivery or credit reporting.
Step 5: Await Card Delivery and Activation ✉️
Once you've submitted the request, American Express will process it.
5.1 Card Delivery
The authorized user's card will typically arrive within 3-5 business days (though it can sometimes take up to 10 business days).
The card will be mailed to the primary cardholder's address by default, or to the authorized user's address if you specified that during the application.
5.2 Card Activation ✅
Upon receiving the card, the authorized user will need to activate it. This can usually be done online through the American Express website or by calling the activation number provided with the card.
Note: Some benefits, like lounge access, may only become active once the card is physically received and activated.
Step 6: Ongoing Management and Monitoring
Adding an authorized user isn't a "set it and forget it" process. Ongoing management is key to a positive experience for everyone involved.
6.1 Monitor Spending Regularly vigilant
Online Account Access: As the primary cardholder, you will have complete visibility into all transactions made on your account, including those by authorized users. You can typically see the authorized user's name next to their charges.
Set Up Alerts: American Express allows you to set up various alerts, such as notifications for purchases exceeding a certain amount, international transactions, or even specific transaction types. This can help you keep tabs on spending in real-time.
Regular Communication: Continue to communicate with your authorized user about their spending and any agreements you have in place for repayment.
6.2 Review Statements
Carefully review your monthly statements to ensure all charges are legitimate and as expected.
If you've set spending limits, monitor them to see how closely the authorized user is adhering to them.
6.3 Understanding Benefits and Credits
While authorized users get many benefits, some specific credits (like certain monthly Uber credits, airline fee credits, or hotel credits) are often tied to the primary cardholder's account and are not multiplied per authorized user. Understand which benefits are shared and which are not for your specific card.
FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered ❓
How to check if an authorized user has been added to my Amex account?
You can check if an authorized user has been successfully added by logging into your American Express online account and navigating to the "Account Services" or "Manage Additional Cards" section. Their name and card details should appear there.
How to remove an authorized user from my American Express card?
To remove an authorized user, you can typically call American Express customer service at the number on the back of your card. Some accounts may also allow you to remove an authorized user through your online account.
How to ensure an authorized user builds good credit?
To help an authorized user build good credit, ensure the primary account is always paid on time and the credit utilization remains low. Discuss responsible spending habits with them and consider setting spending limits.
How to find out the annual fee for an authorized user on my specific Amex card?
The annual fee for authorized users varies by card product. You can find this information in your card's terms and conditions, by logging into your online account and looking for the "Add an Additional Card Member" section, or by calling American Express customer service.
How to activate an American Express authorized user card?
Authorized users can activate their card online by visiting the American Express activation page or by calling the activation number provided on the sticker attached to the new card.
How to set spending limits for an American Express authorized user?
You can usually set spending limits for authorized users through your online American Express account under the "Account Services" or "Manage Additional Card Members" section. Alternatively, you can call customer service to request this.
How to see an authorized user's spending on my Amex statement?
All spending, including that by authorized users, will appear on your primary monthly American Express statement. Transactions made by an authorized user are typically identified with their name next to the charge.
How to get an authorized user their own online Amex account access?
While authorized users don't have their own primary account, they can often create their own American Express online login to view their specific transactions, manage alerts, and potentially make payments if you've set that up. They won't see your primary account details.
How to tell if an authorized user gets lounge access with my Amex card?
Whether an authorized user gets lounge access depends on your specific American Express card product. For premium cards like the Platinum Card, authorized users typically receive lounge access. Check your card's benefits guide or the American Express website's section on authorized user benefits.
How to ensure an authorized user's purchases contribute to my rewards?
All purchases made by authorized users on your American Express account automatically contribute to the primary cardholder's Membership Rewards points balance or other rewards program. The points accrue to your account, not theirs.
