Authorized users aren’t responsible for making credit card payments, which means that even in the event of interest charges and penalties, the primary cardholder is solely liable. Being an authorized user on an established account (in good standing) can help improve your credit score; however, it will not count toward your payment history. Check that the credit card issuer reports authorized users to the credit bureaus — some don’t. If the information is not reported, the authorized user will not build their credit rating, and it could hurt them if they want to take out a loan or qualify for a mortgage.   If you do want your authorized user to build credit and use your card, consider a joint credit card account.  Thankfully, for the primary account holder, simply adding authorized users to your credit card accounts will not negatively affect the primary cardholder’s credit report or credit scores, regardless of the authorized user’s previous credit history. The primary user isn’t liable for the secondary cardholder’s past debts or credit score. However, negative credit card activity, such as maxing out the limit and missing payments, can damage the primary account holder’s credit. Luckily, if negative behaviour with the account does occur, the authorized user can have their name removed from the account.