How to help a family member with their credit

Safer and riskier ways to help a parent, child, or partner build or repair credit.

Safer ways to help

Help them get their free reports, set up autopay, and make a simple budget. Adding them as an authorized user on a well-managed card can also help.

Co-signing is a real risk

A co-signer is legally responsible for the whole debt. Late payments appear on your report too, and the creditor can collect from you.

Never use their identity

Do not open accounts in someone else’s name, even a family member’s, and avoid anyone selling "CPNs." Both can be crimes.

Protect children

Most children should not have a credit report at all. Parents can check for one and request a free credit freeze for a child under 16 at each bureau.