How to Use Credit Cards to Improve Your Credit Score (15 Steps)

14. Turn Authorized User Status to Your Advantage

If you have a family member or trusted friend with good credit, ask them to add you as an authorized user on their card.

Their positive payment history and long account age can boost your score — as long as the card issuer reports authorized users to credit bureaus.

However, make sure the primary user maintains good habits. If they miss payments, it can negatively impact your credit too.