A joint credit card account is different from an authorized user account because, with a joint account, both users maintain full responsibility for the card balance. A credit card company rarely pursues an authorized user for unpaid credit card debt. Instead, the primary cardholder is solely responsible for all accrued debt — although all card users will reap the credit score benefits — or damage — from the account. With a joint account, both users share equal responsibility for the debt and the account maintenance. In the case of a default, the credit card issuer can pursue both users to collect payment. Both users will also share any legal responsibilities in the case of a default. Bank of America and Wells Fargo allow joint credit card applications, but you need to have a joint bank account with the institution to qualify for a joint credit card account. With a joint account, either user can add a new authorized user, approve transactions, and redeem rewards, whereas an authorized user may have limited account access. The primary cardholder can set limits and restrictions on what an authorized user can do on some cards. That’s not the case with a joint account.