Question from Hdj: So my parent added me as an authorized user on their business credit card a few months ago.
I still haven’t seen the card on my credit portfolio. How long does it take?
Hello,
When you’re added as an authorized user on a credit card, it can indeed have an impact on your credit report. However, the time it takes for the card to appear on your credit report can vary.
Typical Timeline for Credit Card Reporting
Typically, it can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days for the credit card to appear on your credit report. This is because most credit card companies report to the credit bureaus once a month. However, some factors can affect this timeline:
- The credit card company’s reporting practices: Not all credit card companies report authorized user activity to the credit bureaus. It’s important to check with the credit card issuer to ensure they report authorized user activity.
- The credit bureau’s update schedule: Even after the credit card company reports the information, it can take some time for the credit bureau to update your credit report.
What to Do If the Card Doesn’t Appear on Your Credit Report
If it’s been more than 60 days and the card still hasn’t appeared on your credit report, there are a few steps you can take:
- Contact the credit card issuer: Ask them if they’ve reported the account to the credit bureaus and if they can provide any information about when it might appear on your report.
- Check your credit report: You can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once a year through AnnualCreditReport.com. Review your report to see if the account is listed.
- Dispute errors with the credit bureaus: If the account should be on your report but isn’t, you can file a dispute with the credit bureaus. They’re required by law to investigate and correct any errors.
Remember, being an authorized user on a credit card can help you build credit, but it also comes with risks. If the primary cardholder misses payments or racks up a high balance, it could negatively affect your credit score. Always make sure you trust the primary cardholder and understand the responsibilities before becoming an authorized user.
