Adding an Authorized User to a Chase Card: The Basic Steps

You can add an authorized user to most Chase credit cards by calling the number on the back of your card, logging into your Chase online account, or using the Chase mobile app. The process takes about 10 minutes and doesn't require a new credit check. Chase will issue a separate card in the authorized user's name, and that person can use it immediately — sometimes within one business day, depending on how you request it.

An authorized user is someone you give permission to charge purchases to your account. They are not responsible for paying the bill — you are. The authorized user's activity appears on your statement, and their credit behavior may show up on their credit report (though this varies by card and situation). You can remove an authorized user at any time through the same channels where you added them.

Key Takeaways

  • You can add an authorized user online, through the Chase app, or by calling the customer service number on your card — no application or credit check required.
  • Chase will mail a card to the authorized user's address, or you can request expedited delivery in some cases for faster access.
  • You remain fully responsible for all charges the authorized user makes, including interest and fees.
  • The authorized user's account activity may appear on their credit report, which can help or hurt their credit score depending on how the account is managed.
  • You can remove an authorized user immediately through your online account or by phone, and Chase will deactivate their card.

Adding an Authorized User Online or Through the App

Log into your Chase account at chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. Look for the card you want to add the user to, then find the option labeled "Manage Card" or "Card Services." From there, select "Add Authorized User" or a similar option — the exact wording varies slightly by card type and app version.

You'll need the authorized user's full name, date of birth, and address. Chase will ask whether you want the card mailed to their address or yours. If you choose their address, the card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Some cards offer rush delivery for an additional fee, though this is not always available. After you submit the information, the authorized user can usually start using the card number immediately if you request instant access, even before the physical card arrives.

Adding an Authorized User by Phone

Call the customer service number on the back of your Chase card. Tell the representative you want to add an authorized user. They will ask for the person's full name, date of birth, and address. The call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Ask the representative whether you can request a rush card or instant access to the card number. Some Chase cards allow you to use the card number right away while the physical card is in the mail. The representative can also tell you the expected delivery date and confirm the address where the card will be sent. Request that they note your account if you have any special instructions — for example, if the authorized user is a minor or if you want spending limits in place.

What Information You Need Before You Start

Gather the authorized user's full legal name (as it appears on their ID), date of birth, and current address before you begin. If you're adding a family member who lives with you, use your shared address. If they live elsewhere, use their own address — Chase will mail the card there.

You do not need the authorized user's Social Security number, credit score, or employment information. Chase does not run a credit check. You also do not need their permission in writing, though it's a good idea to discuss it with them first, especially if they're an adult.

How Authorized User Activity Affects Credit Reports

Chase reports authorized user accounts to the credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) in most cases, which means the account can appear on the authorized user's credit report. This is one reason people add authorized users — the account history, credit limit, and payment record can help build or improve the authorized user's credit score if the account is managed well.

However, if the account carries a balance, has late payments, or shows high utilization, it can hurt the authorized user's credit score just as much as it helps. The authorized user does not control the account or the payments, so they have no way to prevent damage if you miss a payment or carry a large balance. Before adding someone to your account, make sure you're comfortable with that risk and that you plan to keep the account in good standing.

Setting Spending Limits and Managing the Authorized User

Chase does not offer built-in spending limits for authorized users on most cards. If you want to restrict how much an authorized user can spend, you'll need to monitor their activity through your statement or set a personal agreement with them about how much they can charge per month.

You can check authorized user activity in your online account or mobile app — their charges appear on your statement just like your own. If you want to prevent further charges, you can request that Chase deactivate the card immediately by calling customer service or using your online account. The card is deactivated right away, though it may take a day or two for the system to fully process the removal.

Removing an Authorized User

To remove an authorized user, log into your Chase account and find the "Manage Card" or "Card Services" section for that card. Look for an option to remove or delete the authorized user, select their name, and confirm the removal. The process takes less than a minute.

Alternatively, call the customer service number on your card and ask to remove the authorized user by name. The representative will deactivate their card immediately. Chase will not issue a refund for any remaining balance on the card, and the authorized user's access stops right away. The account history may remain on their credit report for several years, depending on the credit bureau and the age of the account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add an authorized user if I'm a student or have a limited credit history?

Yes. Chase doesn't run a credit check on the authorized user, so your credit history doesn't matter. You only need to be the primary cardholder on the account. If you're a student with a Chase card, you can add a parent, roommate, or family member as an authorized user right away.

Will adding an authorized user lower my credit score?

Adding an authorized user typically does not hurt your credit score. However, if the authorized user makes large purchases or misses payments, the account activity can negatively affect your score because you're responsible for the bill. The account itself is reported to the bureaus, so poor management will show up on your credit report.

Can an authorized user see my full account details or change my password?

No. An authorized user can only use the card to make purchases. They cannot log into your account, change your password, view your full statement, or make changes to the account. Only the primary cardholder has access to account management features.

What happens to the authorized user's card if I close the account?

If you close the credit card account, the authorized user's card is deactivated immediately and cannot be used. The account history remains on both your credit report and theirs for several years. Closing an account can affect your credit score, so consider removing the authorized user and keeping the account open if you're concerned about credit impact.

Can I add an authorized user who doesn't have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a date of birth and address, but does not require a Social Security number to add an authorized user. This means you may be able to add someone without a SSN, though Chase's system may ask for one during the process. Call customer service to confirm whether your specific situation is supported.