Adding an authorized user to your American Express account
You can add an authorized user to most American Express cards by calling the number on the back of your card, using the Amex mobile app, or logging into your online account. The process takes a few minutes, and the new cardholder receives their own card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You decide what spending limit, if any, to set for them, and you remain responsible for all charges they make.
Authorized users do not need their own Amex account or credit history. They can be a family member, employee, or anyone else you trust with card access. American Express reports authorized user activity to the credit bureaus under your account, which means their spending affects your credit report and payment history.
Key Takeaways
- You can add an authorized user through the Amex app, your online account, or by calling the customer service number on your card.
- The authorized user receives their own physical card and can make purchases up to any limit you set, but you are liable for all charges.
- Amex reports the account activity to credit bureaus, so late payments or high balances will show on your credit report even if the authorized user made the charges.
- Some Amex cards charge a fee to add an authorized user; others do not, so check your card's terms before you add someone.
- You can remove an authorized user at any time through the same channels you used to add them.
Adding an authorized user through the Amex app or website
Log into your American Express account on the website or open the Amex mobile app. Look for a menu option labeled "Manage my card" or "Card settings." Select the option to add an authorized user and enter the person's name, date of birth, and address. You will need to confirm their relationship to you and set a spending limit if you want one.
After you submit the information, Amex sends a confirmation to your registered email address. The new cardholder's card ships within 7 to 10 business days. They can begin using the card as soon as it arrives, even if they have not activated it yet. If you need the card sooner, call Amex customer service to ask about expedited shipping options, though not all card types or situations may have access to.
Adding an authorized user by phone
Call the customer service number on the back of your American Express card. Tell the representative you want to add an authorized user. Have the person's full name, date of birth, and address ready. The representative will ask you to confirm the spending limit you want to set and may ask security questions to verify your identity.
The entire call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. The representative will confirm the mailing address where the new card should be sent. If you want it sent somewhere other than your billing address, tell them at this time. You will receive a confirmation number; write it down in case you need to follow up on the card's arrival.
Spending limits and card controls for authorized users
When you add an authorized user, you can set a monthly spending limit, a per-transaction limit, or both. If you do not set a limit, the authorized user can charge up to your full credit line. The limit you choose applies only to that authorized user; it does not affect your own spending power on the account.
After the card is issued, you can change or remove the spending limit at any time through your online account or by calling Amex. Some Amex cards also let you temporarily freeze an authorized user's card through the app if you lose it or suspect fraud. The freeze does not cancel the card; it straightforward stops new charges until you unfreeze it.
Fees and card-specific rules for authorized users
Most American Express personal cards do not charge a fee to add an authorized user. However, some premium cards—such as the American Express Platinum Card—charge $175 per year for each authorized user after the first one. Check your specific card's terms and conditions before you add someone, or call Amex to confirm whether a fee applies.
Business American Express cards often have different rules. Some business cards allow you to add multiple authorized users at no charge, while others charge per user. If you hold a business card, ask the Amex representative about the fee structure when you call to add an authorized user.
How authorized user activity affects your credit and account
American Express reports all authorized user charges to the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—under your account name and Social Security number. This means late payments, high balances, and missed payments show on your credit report, even if the authorized user made the charges. Your payment history and credit utilization ratio are affected by their spending.
If an authorized user runs up a large balance or misses a payment, it can lower your credit score. You remain the primary cardholder and are legally responsible for all charges, regardless of who made them. If you are concerned about an authorized user's spending habits, set a low limit or monitor the account regularly through your online dashboard.
Removing an authorized user
You can remove an authorized user at any time through your Amex account online, through the app, or by calling customer service. The process is when ready; the card becomes inactive as soon as you request removal. The authorized user will not receive a notification from Amex, so tell them directly if you want them to know.
Removing an authorized user does not erase their past charges from your account or credit report. Any balance they accumulated remains your responsibility. If you removed them because of fraud or unauthorized charges, contact Amex when ready to dispute those specific transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does adding an authorized user hurt my credit score?
Adding an authorized user itself does not hurt your score. However, if they spend money and you carry a high balance, your credit utilization ratio increases, which can lower your score. Late payments by the authorized user also damage your credit since the account reports under your name.
Can an authorized user see my full account details?
No. An authorized user can see their own charges and the current balance, but they cannot see your full account history, credit limit, or other details. They receive their own statement showing only their transactions.
What happens if an authorized user makes a fraudulent charge?
Contact American Express when ready and report the charge as fraudulent. Amex will investigate and typically remove the charge from your account. You are not responsible for fraudulent charges made by an authorized user, though Amex may ask you to remove that person from the account.
Can I add an authorized user who does not have a Social Security number?
American Express requires a date of birth and address for all authorized users, but policies on Social Security numbers vary. Call Amex customer service to ask whether you can add someone without a U.S. Social Security number; they may accept an ITIN or other identification.
How many authorized users can I add to one card?
American Express allows multiple authorized users per card, but the exact number varies by card type. Most personal cards allow at least 5 to 10 authorized users. Call Amex or check your card's terms to confirm the limit for your specific card.