What’s an authorized user?
When you add an authorized user, you give them access to your credit limit on your credit card account.
That means they’ll get a credit card in their name with a unique number and the benefits that come with a USAA credit card (Apply for a USAA credit card). See note 1
You can add multiple authorized users if they’re included on your member profile.
Why add an authorized user?
There are several reasons to consider adding someone to your account.
For example, you could add an authorized user to:
- Help a family member build their credit.
- Give a family member a card to use for their daily expenses.
- Teach a family member how to manage credit and use a card responsibly.
What kind of access can an authorized user have?
When you add someone to your account, they can do certain things depending on the permissions you give them.
What authorized users can do with basic access
Make payments.
Transfer money and request cash advances.
Add a temporary block on their credit card.
Delete themselves as an authorized user from the account.
Activate their credit card and change the PIN.
Replace a damaged or lost card.
Check the mailing status of their card.
What authorized users can do with enhanced access
Complete actions available to basic access users.
View a list of pending, approved and declined account transactions.
Access monthly statements for the credit card account.
Discuss transactions and monthly statements with a USAA Member Service Representative.
What you’ll need before adding an authorized user
Make sure the person you're adding is in your profile. If they aren’t, add them first (Add authorized user).
Ask the person you're adding for permission to provide their information to USAA.
Make sure they understand:
- We'll report account information to credit reporting agencies in their name.
- Doing that may impact their credit score.
Have your credit card handy.
What could stop me from adding or managing an authorized user?
There are several reasons why you or the other user may not be eligible.
- You’re not the primary or secondary cardholder of the account.
- You already have the maximum number of authorized users on the account.
- The account doesn’t meet our guidelines or requirements.
For more help adding or managing an authorized user, call us at 800-531-USAA (8722).
Authorized users for credit cards FAQ
First, go to the USAA Home page. From there, you’ll:
- Select the card you want to manage.
- Choose “My Account & Card.”
- Then select “Manage authorized users” and follow the steps.
Before you remove a user, make sure they cancel any recurring transactions they’ve set up.
Their credit card will stop working the day you remove them.
No. As the primary or secondary accountholder, you’re responsible for all charges.
Authorized users can still make payments on the credit card account.
After you finish adding an authorized user, we’ll send a card in their name to your mailing address on file in 7 to 10 business days.
For updates, you can check the card order status (For when authorized user will receive their card).
They can use it as soon as they activate the credit card.