Under US law, you can only use someone else’s credit card if you are authorized to do so. The primary cardholder would have to call their credit card company and add you as an authorized user.

What happens if you use your mom’s credit card?

When someone uses a credit card without permission from the account holder, this constitutes an unauthorized charge, according to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Your close relationship to your parents doesn’t make it OK for you to use their credit card to make a purchase without asking for permission.

Can I give my credit card to someone else?

According to National Consumer Law Center Associate Director Lauren Saunders, it’s not illegal to lend someone else your credit card. In other words, that little loan is not breaking any federal or state laws. But there’s a good chance you’re violating your credit card contract.

What kind of credit card is my mom using?

My mom’s been paying off my Capital One and my Old Navy credit cards. I had payment protection on my Capital One card, and it was all paid off. But then one day I open my statement, and find out that my mom has been using MY card to make purchases, and this has been going on for a year.

What to do when family member uses your credit card?

Notify the three credit bureaus. Place a credit freeze on your credit reports. This will prevent her from opening up any new accounts in your name, just in case she is so inclined. As far as your credit rating, when your credit card company wipes the debt from your record, your reports and scores will rebound.

What to do if your mother steals your credit card?

However, you don’t have to snatch it from her physically to stop her from spending with it. Just call the company and report the card as stolen. That will render it nothing but a useless piece of plastic. Other steps to take: Contact the police. Report the crime. Yes, against your own mother.

What happens to my credit score when my mother uses my credit card?

As far as your credit rating, when your credit card company wipes the debt from your record, your reports and scores will rebound. What remains now is what to do about your mother on a personal level.