If I am an authorized user on a department store card or on a visa does it add the same amount to my fico score or do I have to get the account on my own?
The best thing to do friend is to ask the vender if they report if you are an authorized user vs. being contractually liable (as a joint account holder would be). Certain banks and stores are different from others.
The BEST thing to do is to check your credit reports. Regardless of what some dim wit Customer Service Rep might tell you, the proof is in the pudding. Look at your reports to see how they are reported.
