If the primary card holder files bankruptcy, is the authorized user responsible for the debt?

Question

I was an authorized user on 3 of my mothers credit cards so that it would build my credit. But recently she had file for bankruptcy, and when it was finally over with she asked her lawyer about me and what will happen. She told my mom that i now have to file for bankruptcy too because the creditors will start coming after me for the debt. But i think she is wrong because i've been looking it up on the internet and every site says that an authorized user is not responsible. (and i do know that i was authorized and not a co-signer) However, none of them say if that's still the case if the primary files for bankruptcy. I'm pretty sure it is on my credit and i don't know how to either get rid of it or what i can do to fix my credit. Please help!

Answer 1

If you are ONLY an authorized user and not a joint accountholder, you are not legally obligated on the debt.  Your mother is either misinterpreting what the attorney told her, or her attorney is ignorant of the law.

Your credit report should have a code of some kind for each item showing whether you are primary, joint, or an authorized user.  If you dispute an item on your credit report, contact the credit reporting agency.  Their websites all list the methods for disputing an item.

If any of your mother's creditors try to come after you, let them know you are only an authorized user and not a joint accountholder.  If they continue to harass you, threaten to contact the FCC and look into hiring an attorney.

But first, make sure you are only an authorized user.  If you signed the credit application when your mother applied for the cards, you are liable.

Answer 2

No authorized users have no legal responsibility for the debt period.

Answer 3

As SPIFFMAN has stated, authorized users have no obligation to pay the debt,  It will however affect your credit score as being listed as an authorized user is often used to increase ones credit score, but it can also hurt your score as in this case.

And as to what Rebbecca mentioned, I think she meant report it to the FTC.  The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) has nothing to do with finances.