I recently described how to move Amex credit limit online. In addition to adding more spending ability to a card, one may want to add more users to an account to achieve a particular spending level. Fortunately, cardholders can also accomplish this online. Here’s why you may want to consider adding an Amex authorized user and how to do so.
Authorized User Considerations
So why would an Amex cardholder want to add an authorized user to an account? First off, as I alluded to above, more cardholders enables quicker point earning to meet specific redemption goals. More people simultaneously spending on the same account results in the points piling up faster. Second, adding an Amex authorized user can unlock points transfers for that authorized user. Also, Amex targets cardholders with bonuses for adding authorized users (this may require a specific link).
Of course, adding or being an authorized user isn’t optimal for everyone. Those tremendously sensitive to their Chase 5/24 status may not want to be an authorized user.
Once you’re logged in, choose the card account where you want to add an authorized user. Do so by clicking on the specific card from the online account menu (far right toward the top). This area displays the card art and last five digits of the account number.
Step #3: Click on Account Services
You’ll find this in the center of the online account menu up top.
Step #4: Click Add Someone To Your Account
You’ll find this on the bottom left corner within the Account Services icons (displayed above). If you don’t have this option, click Manage Other Users (on the left). Then, click Add Someone to Your Account (personal cards) or Add or Manage Employee Cards (business cards).
Step #5: Select the Card (Again)
All of the eligible accounts where you can add an authorized user appear. Click the radio button next to the card where you want to add an authorized user and click Continue.
Step #6: Add Authorized User Info
Select authorized users you already have with Amex to add to this account and/or enter the new users’ info. You can add multiple authorized users as part of this process. Click Agree & Submit at the bottom.
Conclusion
Adding an Amex authorized user online is doable but a bit on the busy side. Steps #2 and #5 seem needlessly repetitive. Also, the experience is a bit inconsistent across different Amex cards. The above example is for adding someone to my Bonvoy Brilliant account. I noticed that a few Pay Over Time and business cards either didn’t have the icon listed in step #4 or it was located somewhere else. It’s not too cumbersome to navigate the differences, but it’s enough to be annoying. A cardholder can add users online, but it seems to take more clicks and traversing more pages than necessary.
I applaud Amex for giving cardholders a variety of items to accomplish online. Of course, a more involved user interface comes along with that to a certain extent. I feel Amex can streamline this process more, but it’s not a huge deal. Have you added an Amex authorized user online? How was your experience?
Disclosure: Miles to Memories has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Miles to Memories and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
Benjy focuses on the intersection of points, travel, and financial independence (FI). An experienced world traveler, husband, and father, he currently roams throughout the USA close to expense-free. Benjy enjoys helping others achieve their FI and travel goals.
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