How to Remove Myself as an Authorized User

An authorized user is an individual who has permission to use another person’s credit card account, but they are not legally responsible for the debt incurred. This arrangement is often made for convenience, such as for family members, or to help someone establish a credit history. This article provides a guide for individuals seeking to remove themselves as an authorized user from a credit card account.

Initiating Your Removal

Removing yourself as an authorized user from a credit card account involves direct communication with the credit card issuer, which is often the most effective way to ensure your removal. You can usually initiate this process without the primary account holder’s consent.

To begin, locate the customer service number for the credit card issuer, commonly found on the back of the credit card or on a monthly statement. When contacting the issuer, be prepared to provide your personal information, the primary account holder’s name, and the credit card account number. Clearly state your request to be removed as an authorized user. While a phone call is generally the most direct method, some issuers may also offer options for removal through their online secure messaging systems or by visiting a local branch, if applicable.

While the primary cardholder can also remove an authorized user, this guide focuses on the authorized user’s ability to take direct action. Most credit card companies will process the removal request from an authorized user directly, recognizing that the authorized user is not obligated to the debt.

Confirming the Removal

After initiating the removal request, confirm the process has been completed. Monitor any online access you previously had to the credit card account, as it should be revoked once your removal is processed. If you continue to receive statements, review them to ensure your name no longer appears or the authorized user card is inactive.

The credit card issuer may send a confirmation letter or email once your removal request has been processed. Look for this communication, as it verifies your removal. If you do not receive confirmation within 7 to 10 business days, follow up with the issuer’s customer service to confirm your removal and address any delays.

Addressing Your Credit Report

Verifying the removal’s reflection on your credit report is a crucial final step to ensure the account is no longer associated with your credit file and history. Obtain a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

You can obtain a free copy of your credit report from each bureau once every 12 months by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com. Once you have your reports, examine them to locate the authorized user account. Confirm the account no longer appears or its status reflects your removal, such as “closed by grantor” or absent. If the account still appears incorrectly on your credit report after confirming your removal with the issuer, you have the right to dispute the inaccuracy directly with the credit bureau. The dispute process can be initiated online, by mail, or by phone; provide supporting documentation like the confirmation of removal from the issuer.