How to add an authorized user to a Capital One card
You can add an authorized user to your Capital One credit card account by calling Capital One's customer service line, logging into your online account, or using the Capital One mobile app. The person you add will receive their own card linked to your account, and their charges will count toward your credit limit. You remain responsible for all charges made by the authorized user.
Capital One does not charge a fee to add an authorized user. The process takes a few minutes if you call, or you can complete it yourself online without speaking to anyone. The new card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- You can add an authorized user through Capital One's website, mobile app, or by calling 1-800-955-9060.
- The authorized user will have their own card but will share your credit limit, and all their purchases are your responsibility.
- Capital One does not charge a fee to add an authorized user to your account.
- The new authorized user card arrives in 7 to 10 business days after you complete the request.
- You can remove an authorized user at any time using the same methods you used to add them.
Add an authorized user online or through the app
Log into your Capital One account at capitalone.com or open the Capital One mobile app on your phone. Look for the account settings or card management section — this is usually labeled "Account" or "Settings" in the main menu. Select the option to manage authorized users or add a cardholder.
You will need the authorized user's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Enter this information and confirm the request. Capital One will show you a summary of what the authorized user can do (make purchases on the shared account) and what you remain responsible for (all charges). Once you confirm, the request is submitted and the new card will be ordered automatically.
If you cannot find the authorized user option in your app or online account, your card type or account status may not support this feature through self-service. In that case, call Capital One customer service instead.
Add an authorized user by phone
Call Capital One customer service at 1-800-955-9060. Have your account number and the authorized user's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number ready before you call. Wait times are usually shortest on weekday mornings.
Tell the representative you want to add an authorized user. They will verify your identity by asking for your card number, Social Security number, or other account details. Once verified, they will take the authorized user's information and confirm the details with you. The representative will tell you when to expect the new card to arrive and will answer any questions about how the account works.
What information you need before you start
Gather the following details about the person you want to add as an authorized user:
- Their full legal name (as it appears on their ID)
- Their date of birth
- Their Social Security number
You will also need your own Capital One account number, which appears on your card or in your online account. If you are adding the authorized user online or through the app, have your login credentials ready. If you are calling, have your card and account information nearby so you can verify your identity quickly.
What happens after you add an authorized user
Capital One will order a new card in the authorized user's name. This card will be linked to your account and will draw from your credit limit. The card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can track the card's status in your online account or app under the authorized user's name.
Once the card arrives, the authorized user can begin making purchases when ready. The charges will appear on your monthly statement under their name, and you will be responsible for paying the full balance. The authorized user's activity will not show up on their own credit report — only on yours. This means adding an authorized user does not help them build their own credit history.
You can set spending limits or restrictions on some Capital One cards through your online account. Check your account settings to see if this option is available for your card type.
Remove an authorized user from your account
You can remove an authorized user at any time using the same methods you used to add them. Online, log into your account, go to the authorized user section, and select the option to remove or delete that user. Through the app, navigate to account settings and find the authorized user management area. By phone, call 1-800-955-9060 and ask to remove the authorized user by name.
When you remove an authorized user, their card will no longer work. Any pending charges made before removal will still appear on your statement. Capital One does not charge a fee to remove an authorized user. The removal takes effect when ready, though it may take a few days for the card to be deactivated if the authorized user tries to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does adding an authorized user hurt my credit score?
Adding an authorized user does not directly hurt your credit score. Capital One may perform a soft inquiry, which does not affect your score. However, if the authorized user makes large purchases that push your credit utilization higher, that could lower your score slightly. Your score may improve if the authorized user makes small purchases and you pay the balance in full each month.
Can I set a spending limit for an authorized user?
Some Capital One cards allow you to set spending limits or daily transaction limits through your online account. Log into your account and check the authorized user settings to see if this option is available for your card. Not all card types support this feature, so you may not be able to restrict spending.
What if the authorized user makes charges I don't want to pay?
You are responsible for all charges made by an authorized user, even if you did not approve them. If the authorized user makes unauthorized charges, you can remove them from the account and dispute the charges with Capital One. Contact customer service at 1-800-955-9060 to report fraudulent activity.
Can an authorized user see my full account details?
An authorized user can see their own charges and the current balance, but they typically cannot see your full account history, payment information, or other account details. The level of access varies by card type. Contact Capital One if you have questions about what an authorized user can view.
How long does it take to remove an authorized user?
Removal takes effect when ready when you request it online, through the app, or by phone. The authorized user's card will stop working within a few hours to a few days, depending on the payment network. Any charges made after removal will be declined.