 TITLE: What Rights Do You Have As an Authorized User on a Credit Card? CONTENT: Is an Authorized User Different From a Joint Account Holder?\n------------------------------------------------------------\nAlthough they may sound similar, an authorized-user situation is quite different from being a joint account holder. As a joint account holder you are considered a primary account holder, not a secondary user. You also can't be added at a later date as a joint account holder; you would have to apply for the credit card at the same time as the other person.\nA common reason people become joint account owners is to increase their odds of credit acceptance. You may not qualify for a credit card on your own because you have poor or unestablished credit. By applying with someone who has great credit, however, the issuer may be more apt to grant the account. Both you and the other person would be equally responsible for payments and any resulting debt.\nJoint accounts are listed on the credit reports belonging to both cardholders. So if the account is managed well, it will help each of your credit ratings rise. If it's mismanaged, however, neither of you can get your name off the card until the debt is repaid and the account is closed. END