Suppose you decided to share credit with another person. In most cases, you could add him or her as an authorized user to one of your accounts, or open a new joint credit card together. But before deciding which option is best, it’s important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each choice. Authorized users When you add someone as an authorized user on your account, whether he or she is a loved one or just a roommate you’re splitting expenses with, you’re giving him or her permission to make purchases using your credit card.