Adding an Authorized User

An Authorized User is someone added to an account without an additional credit check. They'll get a card with their name on it and share charging privileges (up to the primary cardholder's available line of credit).

An Authorized User is not responsible for paying the charges on the account. The primary cardholder (and secondary, if applicable) is responsible for all charges made on the account, including by the Authorized User.

An Authorized User needs to be at least 15 years old and can be any family member, friend or person whom the primary cardholder trusts.

The primary cardholder can add an Authorized User by logging into Account Center, selecting "Manage" and then selecting "Manage Authorized Users."

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It is our practice to verify the identity of all users of a Discover card account. To do so, we require the primary cardholder to provide the first and last name, address, date of birth and social security number for all Authorized Users added to their Discover card account.

Note: This information helps us better understand our customers and those who are authorized to use accounts.

Adding a user won't impact the primary cardholder's credit score. However, the primary cardholder and any secondary cardholder are responsible for timely paying on the account under the account terms, including as to charges made by the Authorized User. When you add a friend or family member as an Authorized User to your Discover card, you may help them build a credit history, with responsible use.¹

1. Primary account holder is responsible for all charges made by the Authorized User(s). Discover reports the account credit history to the three major credit bureaus as to you and the Authorized User. This can help build the Authorized User’s credit history over time if used responsibly. Late payments, delinquencies or other derogatory activity with your credit card accounts and loans may adversely impact yours and the Authorized User’s ability to build credit.

Authorized Users can report any lost or stolen cards, request additional cards, obtain account information such as account and rewards balance, initiate billing disputes, request statement copies, inquire about fees and payment amount/due date, make payments, complete a BT or cash advance or remove themselves at any time.

Authorized Users cannot close the account, add another Authorized User, increase the credit line, request a lower annual percentage rate (APR), change a personal identification number (PIN), request account center assistance, change account information such as account email address(es), or set up direct pay.