Which credit agency does Amex use explained

Which credit agency does Amex use takes center stage, this opening passage beckons readers with a casual but instructional style into a world crafted with good knowledge, ensuring a reading experience that is both absorbing and distinctly original.

Ever wondered which credit bureaus American Express reports to? It’s a common question, especially when you’re trying to get a handle on your credit health or understand how your Amex activity impacts your financial standing. This guide breaks down exactly that, explaining why it matters and how to find out for yourself.

Understanding the Core Inquiry

The fundamental question, “Which credit agency does Amex use,” stems from a consumer’s desire to understand the entities that influence their creditworthiness and financial standing in relation to American Express. This inquiry is not merely academic; it touches upon practical aspects of financial management and credit health. Individuals are often driven by a need to ascertain which of the major credit bureaus are consulted by Amex when making decisions about credit applications, account management, and overall credit reporting.Understanding which credit agencies Amex utilizes provides valuable insight into how one’s financial behavior is tracked and reported.

This knowledge empowers consumers to proactively manage their credit profiles, as they can then focus their efforts on ensuring accurate reporting with the specific agencies that Amex relies upon. It’s about demystifying the credit reporting process and gaining control over one’s financial narrative.

Reasons for Seeking Information on Amex’s Credit Agencies

Individuals seek to identify the credit agencies Amex uses for a variety of well-defined and practical reasons, all centered around managing and improving their credit standing. This information is crucial for informed decision-making regarding credit applications, dispute resolutions, and understanding credit score impacts.The common motivations behind this inquiry include:

• Credit Application Evaluation: When applying for an American Express card or loan, consumers want to know which credit reports will be reviewed. This helps them anticipate the lender’s perspective and understand potential approval factors.
• Credit Score Monitoring: Knowing the specific agencies Amex pulls from allows individuals to focus their credit monitoring efforts on those bureaus, ensuring they have accurate and up-to-date information on file.
• Dispute Resolution: If there’s an error on a credit report that affects an Amex application or existing account, knowing the reporting agency is vital for directing disputes effectively.
• Understanding Credit Impact: Consumers may wish to understand how specific actions, such as late payments or new credit applications, will be reported and impact their credit with Amex.
• Strategic Credit Management: For individuals actively managing their credit for significant financial goals like mortgages or auto loans, understanding Amex’s reporting practices helps in optimizing their overall credit strategy.

Scenarios Benefiting from Knowledge of Amex’s Credit Agencies

The practical application of knowing which credit agencies American Express uses extends to several common financial scenarios. This information can significantly influence an individual’s approach to credit management and financial planning, leading to more favorable outcomes.The typical scenarios where this knowledge proves beneficial are:

• Applying for a New Amex Card: Before submitting an application, understanding which credit bureaus Amex reviews allows applicants to check their reports with those specific agencies for any inaccuracies or negative marks that might hinder approval. For instance, if Amex primarily pulls from Experian, an applicant might prioritize ensuring their Experian report is pristine.
• Managing an Existing Amex Account: If an Amex account is being considered for a credit limit increase or a balance transfer, the issuer may pull a credit report. Knowing the agency helps the account holder monitor their credit in anticipation of such actions.
• Addressing Disputed Information: When a consumer disputes an error on their credit report that is affecting their Amex relationship, identifying the reporting agency is the first step in the dispute process. For example, if a fraudulent inquiry appears on a TransUnion report and Amex considers TransUnion, the consumer knows where to initiate their dispute.
• Planning for Major Purchases: Individuals planning to use Amex financing for large purchases or seeking other credit lines where Amex’s reporting history might be indirectly considered, benefit from knowing their credit is being reported to the agencies Amex uses. This ensures a consistent and positive credit image across the board.
• Recovering from Credit Setbacks: If a consumer has experienced past credit issues, understanding Amex’s reporting agencies allows them to focus their credit repair efforts on the most impactful bureaus, accelerating their journey towards better creditworthiness with Amex and other lenders.

Identifying Amex’s Reporting Practices

Understanding how American Express reports to credit bureaus is fundamental to grasping the impact of your financial habits on your creditworthiness. This process isn’t a black box; it’s a structured system designed to provide a comprehensive view of a consumer’s credit behavior. By examining the players involved and Amex’s specific actions, we can demystify this crucial aspect of personal finance.The credit reporting ecosystem in the United States involves several key entities that collect and disseminate financial information.

These bureaus act as central repositories, compiling data from various lenders to generate credit reports. Credit card companies, in turn, leverage this system to manage risk and assess potential borrowers. American Express, as a major financial institution, actively participates in this ecosystem.

Major Credit Reporting Bureaus in the United States

To comprehend credit reporting, it is essential to be aware of the primary agencies responsible for collecting and maintaining credit information. These organizations play a pivotal role in the financial lives of consumers, influencing access to credit, loans, and even housing.The three main credit reporting bureaus in the United States are:

• Equifax
• Experian
• TransUnion

These bureaus gather data from a wide array of sources, including lenders, credit card issuers, collection agencies, and public records, to create detailed credit profiles for individuals.

General Practice of Credit Card Companies Reporting to Bureaus

Credit card companies, as a standard business practice, report account activity to the major credit bureaus. This reporting is a critical component of the credit system, allowing bureaus to maintain up-to-date credit files. The information shared typically includes account opening dates, credit limits, payment history, balances, and any instances of delinquency or default.This consistent reporting ensures that a borrower’s credit history accurately reflects their financial behavior.

Lenders then use this aggregated information to make informed decisions about extending credit.

Specific Credit Bureaus American Express Reports To

American Express, like most major credit card issuers, adheres to the industry standard of reporting to all three primary credit bureaus. This means that your American Express account activity is generally reflected in your credit reports with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.This comprehensive reporting strategy ensures that a wide range of potential lenders and creditors have access to a complete picture of your credit history with American Express, contributing to a more robust and accurate credit profile.

Reasons for Reporting to Multiple Agencies, Which credit agency does amex use

A single credit card issuer might report to multiple credit agencies for several strategic and practical reasons. This widespread reporting enhances the utility and accuracy of credit information for the entire financial industry.Reporting to multiple bureaus serves to:

• Ensure Comprehensive Credit Profiles: Different lenders may pull credit reports from different bureaus. By reporting to all major bureaus, Amex ensures that all potential creditors have access to its account information, leading to more complete credit profiles for consumers.
• Mitigate Reporting Discrepancies: While rare, minor discrepancies can sometimes occur in data reporting. Reporting to multiple agencies helps to cross-reference information and reduce the likelihood of a consumer’s creditworthiness being misrepresented due to an issue with a single bureau’s data.
• Facilitate Risk Management: For Amex, consistent reporting across all major bureaus aids in their own risk management processes. It provides a broader view of consumer behavior and helps in assessing credit risk more effectively across the entire credit landscape.
• Adherence to Industry Standards: It is an established industry norm and often an expectation by regulators and other financial institutions that major credit issuers report to all significant credit bureaus.

This practice ultimately benefits consumers by providing a more consistent and reliable credit history across different reporting platforms.

The Role of Credit Bureaus in Amex Accounts

American Express, like all major credit issuers, relies heavily on the information provided by credit bureaus to make informed decisions. These bureaus act as central repositories of an individual’s credit history, offering a comprehensive view that extends far beyond a single lender’s perspective. For Amex, understanding this landscape is crucial for both extending new credit and maintaining the integrity of its reporting.The interplay between Amex and credit bureaus is a dynamic one, shaping an individual’s financial narrative.

Amex leverages the data compiled by these agencies to assess risk and reward, while simultaneously contributing its own account activity, thereby influencing the very reports it consults.

Amex’s Use of Credit Bureau Information for New Applications

When an individual applies for an American Express card, the credit bureau report is a cornerstone of the evaluation process. Amex meticulously reviews this information to gauge the applicant’s creditworthiness and potential risk. This data provides a historical snapshot of how the applicant has managed credit in the past, informing Amex’s decision on whether to approve the application and what terms to offer.The evaluation typically involves examining several key areas within the credit report:

• Credit Scores: Amex will pull one or more credit scores from major bureaus. These scores are numerical representations of credit risk, with higher scores generally indicating lower risk.
• Payment History: A thorough review of past payment behavior is conducted. This includes looking for late payments, defaults, bankruptcies, and other derogatory marks. A consistent history of on-time payments is highly valued.
• Credit Utilization: Amex assesses how much of an applicant’s available credit is currently being used. High credit utilization ratios can signal financial strain and increase perceived risk.
• Length of Credit History: A longer credit history, demonstrating responsible management over time, is generally viewed favorably.
• Types of Credit: The mix of credit accounts (e.g., credit cards, installment loans) and how they have been managed can also be a factor.
• New Credit: Amex may consider recent credit inquiries and newly opened accounts, as a flurry of recent credit activity can sometimes indicate financial distress.

Amex’s Reporting of Payment History to Credit Bureaus

Once an account is opened, Amex actively reports the payment history and other relevant account details to the major credit bureaus. This is a critical function that contributes to the collective credit ecosystem. The reporting typically occurs on a monthly basis, ensuring that credit bureaus have up-to-date information.The process involves Amex transmitting data for each of its cardholders to the bureaus.

This data includes, but is not limited to:

• Account Status: Whether the account is open, closed, or has been charged off.
• Credit Limit: The maximum amount of credit extended on the account.
• Current Balance: The outstanding amount owed on the account.
• Payment History: This is a detailed record of each month’s payment, indicating if it was made on time, late, or if no payment was made. Specific details about the number of days past due are often reported.
• Date of Last Activity: The date of the most recent transaction or payment.
• Date Account Opened: The inception date of the credit account.

This consistent reporting ensures that the credit bureaus maintain accurate and current profiles for consumers.

Impact of Amex Account Activity on an Individual’s Credit Report

The activity on an American Express account has a direct and significant impact on an individual’s credit report. Responsible management of an Amex card can bolster a credit profile, while mismanagement can lead to adverse effects. The reporting by Amex contributes to the overall credit score calculation, influencing its trajectory over time.The consequences of Amex account activity are multifaceted:

• Positive Impact: Consistently making payments on time, keeping credit utilization low, and managing the account responsibly will lead to an improved credit score. This can open doors to better interest rates and loan approvals from other lenders in the future.
• Negative Impact: Late payments, exceeding credit limits, or defaulting on payments will negatively affect the credit score. These marks can remain on the credit report for several years, making it more difficult and expensive to obtain credit.
• Credit Utilization Ratio: The balance on an Amex card relative to its credit limit is a key factor. High utilization can drag down a credit score, even with on-time payments.
• Account Age: The longer an Amex account is held and managed well, the more it can contribute positively to the length of credit history, a factor in credit scoring.

Typical Credit Report Sections Influenced by Amex Accounts

American Express accounts, like those from other lenders, are reflected across several standard sections of a credit report. These sections provide a comprehensive overview of an individual’s credit history and are meticulously reviewed by lenders.The primary sections of a credit report influenced by Amex accounts include:

Credit Summary Section

This section offers a high-level overview.

• Public Records: While not directly an Amex account activity, bankruptcies or judgments, if they occur, would be listed here and could indirectly affect Amex’s perception of risk.
• Derogatory Marks: This area would flag any severe negative events associated with Amex accounts, such as charge-offs or collections.

Account Information Section

This is where the specifics of the Amex account are detailed.

• Tradelines: Each Amex card will appear as a tradeline, showing its status (open, closed), the date it was opened, the credit limit, the current balance, and the payment history for each month. This is the most detailed part of how Amex activity is reported.
• Payment History: A month-by-month breakdown of payment performance for the Amex account.

Credit Inquiries Section

This section records when a lender has requested to view your credit report.

• Hard Inquiries: When you apply for an Amex card, a hard inquiry is generated, which can slightly lower your credit score for a short period.
• Soft Inquiries: Inquiries made for promotional offers or by you checking your own credit do not affect your score and are also listed here.

Personal Information Section

While not directly related to account activity, accuracy here is crucial as it links the credit report to the individual.

• Name, Address, Social Security Number: Amex reports this information, and discrepancies can lead to identity theft concerns or inaccurate credit reporting.

The consistent and accurate reporting of Amex account details across these sections is vital for maintaining a reliable credit report for consumers.

Verifying Amex’s Reporting Agencies

Understanding which credit bureaus American Express reports your account information to is a crucial step in managing your credit health. This knowledge empowers you to accurately monitor your credit profile, identify any discrepancies, and effectively dispute inaccuracies if they arise. By knowing the source of your credit data, you gain a clearer picture of your financial standing and can take proactive measures to maintain a strong credit score.The process of verifying Amex’s reporting agencies involves a systematic approach to obtaining and reviewing your credit reports.

This ensures that you have a comprehensive understanding of how your Amex account is reflected across the major credit bureaus.

Designing a Method to Confirm Amex’s Reporting Agencies

An individual can confirm which credit bureaus American Express reports to for their specific account through a direct inquiry and subsequent review of their credit reports. This method relies on the transparency provided by credit reporting agencies and the information shared by lenders.The most direct way to verify this is to obtain your full credit reports from all three major credit bureaus.

Lenders, including American Express, typically report to one or all of these bureaus. By examining each report, you can identify which bureau lists your Amex account and observe any variations in how it is presented. This comparison is essential for a complete understanding of your credit landscape.

Steps to Request a Credit Report from Each Major Bureau

Obtaining your credit reports from the three major credit bureaus is a straightforward process designed to give consumers access to their financial data. It is recommended to request reports from all three to ensure a comprehensive view.

1. AnnualCreditReport.com: This is the only officially authorized website for consumers to obtain their free credit reports from the three nationwide credit reporting companies. You are entitled to one free report from each bureau every 12 months. Visit the website, provide the necessary personal information for verification, and follow the prompts to request your reports.
2. Equifax: You can request your Equifax credit report online through their official website, by phone, or by mail. The online portal is generally the quickest method. Be prepared to answer security questions based on your credit history.
3. Experian: Similar to Equifax, Experian offers online, phone, and mail options for obtaining your credit report. Their website provides a user-friendly interface for requesting your report.
4. TransUnion: TransUnion also provides multiple avenues for report requests, including online, phone, and mail. Accessing your report via their website is typically the most efficient.

It is important to note that while you are entitled to free reports annually through AnnualCreditReport.com, requesting reports directly from the bureaus outside of this program may incur a fee, depending on your location and the bureau’s policies.

Interpreting a Credit Report to Identify Amex Account Information

Once you have obtained your credit reports, the next step is to carefully review them to pinpoint where your American Express account is listed and how it is being reported. This involves understanding the structure of a credit report.Credit reports are typically divided into several sections, including personal information, credit accounts, public records, and inquiries. Your Amex account will be found under the “Credit Accounts” or “Tradelines” section.Within this section, look for entries that specifically mention “American Express” or “Amex.” Each entry will provide details such as:

• Creditor Name: This will clearly state “American Express.”
• Account Type: This will indicate if it is a credit card, charge card, or other type of account.
• Account Number: Often, only the last four digits are displayed for security purposes.
• Date Opened: The date your Amex account was established.
• Credit Limit or Purchase Limit: The maximum amount you can charge.
• Current Balance: The outstanding amount owed on the account.
• Payment History: A record of your payments, including whether they were on time, late, or missed. This is a critical component for assessing your creditworthiness.
• Account Status: This will indicate if the account is open, closed, or has any derogatory remarks.

By cross-referencing the information across your reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, you can confirm which bureaus are receiving reporting from Amex and ensure consistency.

Detailing the Process of Disputing Information Reported by Amex

If you discover any inaccuracies on your credit report pertaining to your American Express account, it is essential to dispute this information promptly. The credit bureaus have a formal process for handling disputes, and lenders are required to investigate them.The dispute process involves several key steps:

1. Gather Evidence: Before initiating a dispute, collect all relevant documentation that supports your claim. This could include payment confirmations, statements, correspondence with Amex, or any other proof that contradicts the information on your credit report.
2. Identify the Reporting Bureau: Determine which credit bureau has the inaccurate information. You will need to file a separate dispute with each bureau that contains the error.
3. Contact the Credit Bureau: You can initiate a dispute online, by mail, or by phone with each of the major credit bureaus. Most bureaus have a dedicated dispute section on their website, which is often the most efficient method.
4. Submit Your Dispute: Clearly state the inaccuracy you are disputing, provide your account details, and attach copies of your supporting evidence. Be specific about the correction you are seeking. For example, if a payment is marked as late when it was made on time, provide proof of the on-time payment.
5. Amex Investigation: Once the credit bureau receives your dispute, they are required to investigate it by contacting the furnisher of the information, in this case, American Express. Amex will then review their records to verify the accuracy of the reported information.
6. Resolution: After their investigation, Amex will report their findings to the credit bureau. The bureau will then update your credit report accordingly. If the information is found to be inaccurate, it should be corrected or removed. You will be notified of the outcome of the dispute.

It is important to maintain records of all communication related to your dispute, including dates, names of individuals you spoke with, and copies of all correspondence. This documentation can be valuable if further action is required.

Implications for Credit Management

Understanding which credit agencies American Express reports to is not merely an academic exercise; it is a fundamental component of effective credit management. This knowledge empowers individuals and businesses to proactively manage their financial standing, ensuring that their financial behavior, particularly with Amex accounts, translates into a positive reflection on their creditworthiness. By aligning financial habits with the reporting practices of these key agencies, one can strategically build and maintain a robust credit profile.The reporting of Amex account activity to major credit bureaus forms the bedrock of an individual’s credit history.

A consistent, positive payment history with American Express directly contributes to a higher credit score, opening doors to better loan terms, lower interest rates, and increased access to credit in the future. Conversely, any lapse in timely payments or mismanagement of credit limits can have a significant, detrimental impact.

Credit Score Management Through Amex Reporting

The consistent reporting of Amex account activity to credit bureaus is a powerful lever for managing one’s credit score. Each on-time payment, responsible utilization of credit, and absence of negative marks like late payments or defaults, are meticulously recorded. These positive actions, when reported to agencies like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, directly bolster the factors that contribute to a higher credit score.

For instance, a credit utilization ratio, which measures the amount of credit used compared to the total available credit, is a key scoring metric. Maintaining a low utilization ratio on Amex cards, typically below 30%, signals to lenders that an individual is not overextended and can manage credit responsibly.

The Significance of a Positive Payment History with Amex

A positive payment history with American Express is paramount for overall credit health. Lenders and creditors view consistent, on-time payments as a primary indicator of financial responsibility. When Amex reports to credit bureaus that an account has been managed diligently, this positive data point significantly influences credit scoring models. A history of paying Amex bills on time, every time, demonstrates reliability and reduces the perceived risk associated with lending to an individual.

This can translate into more favorable terms on future loans, such as mortgages, auto loans, and even rental agreements, as landlords and lenders often review credit reports to assess a potential tenant’s or borrower’s financial stability.

Best Practices for Managing Amex Accounts for Credit Impact

To ensure Amex accounts positively influence credit reports, adopting a disciplined approach to account management is essential. These practices are designed to maximize the benefits of responsible credit usage and mitigate potential negative impacts.

• Timely Payments: Always make payments by the due date. Setting up automatic payments can be a highly effective strategy to avoid late fees and negative reporting. Even if an automatic payment fails, proactively making the payment before the grace period ends is crucial.
• Credit Utilization Management: Keep the balance on Amex cards well below the credit limit. Aim to keep the reported utilization ratio below 30% and ideally below 10%. This demonstrates that you are not reliant on credit to meet your financial obligations.
• Monitoring Credit Reports: Regularly review credit reports from all three major bureaus to ensure accuracy. Amex’s reporting should align with your payment history. Any discrepancies should be addressed promptly with Amex and the credit bureau.
• Responsible Credit Limit Increases: When offered a credit limit increase, consider accepting it, provided you can maintain responsible spending habits. A higher credit limit, when balances remain low, further improves your credit utilization ratio.
• Avoiding Unnecessary Applications: While Amex offers various cards, avoid applying for too many credit products in a short period, as each hard inquiry can slightly lower your credit score. Focus on cards that align with your spending habits and financial goals.

Differential Weighing of Amex Account Information by Credit Bureaus

While the core principles of credit reporting are consistent across major bureaus like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, there can be subtle differences in how they weigh specific Amex account information. These differences stem from the proprietary algorithms each bureau uses in their credit scoring models, such as FICO or VantageScore. Generally, all bureaus place significant emphasis on payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, credit mix, and new credit.For example, while all will penalize late payments, the exact point deduction might vary slightly.

Similarly, the impact of a high credit utilization ratio on an Amex card might be perceived with slightly different weight by each bureau. Some bureaus might give a bit more emphasis to the length of the credit history with Amex, rewarding long-standing, well-managed accounts. It is therefore prudent to maintain excellent standing across all accounts, as this strategy ensures a positive impact regardless of minor algorithmic variations between bureaus.

Potential Variations and Nuances

While Amex’s core credit reporting practices are generally consistent, a closer examination reveals several layers of potential variation. These nuances can impact how your Amex account appears on your credit report, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive understanding beyond the standard reporting mechanisms.The landscape of credit reporting is not monolithic. Factors such as the specific product you hold, your geographical location, and even unique account circumstances can introduce subtle but significant differences in how American Express interacts with credit bureaus.

Account Type Differences in Reporting

American Express offers a diverse portfolio of products, ranging from personal credit cards and charge cards to business cards and corporate accounts. The reporting practices for these different account types can exhibit variations.Personal and business accounts are typically reported to different sets of credit bureaus, reflecting the distinct credit profiles they are designed to influence. Business accounts, for instance, may be reported to commercial credit bureaus in addition to, or instead of, consumer credit bureaus.

This distinction is crucial for businesses managing their commercial creditworthiness.

Geographical Variations in Reporting Agencies

The specific credit bureaus to which American Express reports can also vary based on the geographical location of the account holder. While major bureaus are standard in many regions, local regulations and the prevalence of specific credit reporting agencies in different countries or even states can influence Amex’s reporting choices.For example, reporting practices in the United States will primarily involve Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

However, in other countries where American Express operates, it will adhere to the local credit reporting infrastructure, potentially reporting to agencies unique to that region.

Uncommon Reporting Circumstances

Although American Express typically reports to a well-defined set of credit bureaus, there are specific circumstances that might lead to reporting to an agency not usually on their standard list. These situations are often driven by extraordinary account activity or regulatory requirements.One such circumstance could involve specialized debt collection agencies or legal judgments. If an account is severely delinquent and enters a legal process or is assigned to a specialized agency for recovery, reporting might extend to bureaus that track such specific financial statuses.

Furthermore, in cases of fraud or identity theft investigations, Amex might report to agencies involved in monitoring such activities.

Authorized User Reporting and Amex Accounts

The concept of an “authorized user” reporting to credit bureaus is an important aspect of credit management, and it applies to American Express accounts. When you add an authorized user to your Amex card, their credit history can be affected by the account’s performance.American Express, like many other card issuers, has the option to report the payment history of authorized users to the major credit bureaus.

This means that if the primary cardholder manages the account responsibly, the authorized user can benefit from a positive payment history, potentially boosting their credit score. Conversely, late payments or high balances on the account can negatively impact the credit of both the primary cardholder and any authorized users.

American Express typically pulls from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, so knowing which credit agency does Amex use is key. This also touches on broader credit card usage, like understanding if can i use business credit card for personal expenses. Ultimately, your credit health impacts how issuers like Amex view your applications, and they’ll check those major bureaus.

Epilogue

So, to wrap things up, knowing which credit agencies Amex reports to is more than just a trivia question; it’s a key piece of the puzzle for smart credit management. By understanding their reporting practices and how to check your own reports, you can better control your financial narrative and build a stronger credit future. Keep these insights in mind as you manage your Amex accounts!

General Inquiries: Which Credit Agency Does Amex Use

Which credit bureaus does Amex typically report to?

American Express generally reports to all three major credit bureaus in the US: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This is pretty standard for most major credit card issuers.

Why would Amex report to more than one credit bureau?

Reporting to multiple bureaus ensures that your credit history is comprehensive and accessible to lenders across the board. It also helps these bureaus maintain accurate and up-to-date credit reports for consumers.

How does Amex use my credit report when I apply?

When you apply for an Amex card, they’ll pull your credit report from one or more of these bureaus to assess your creditworthiness. They look at your payment history, credit utilization, and other factors to decide whether to approve your application and what terms to offer.

How can I find out for sure which bureaus Amex reports my account to?

The best way is to check your credit reports directly from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Your Amex account should be listed under the “accounts” or “credit accounts” section of each report, showing which bureau has it.

Does Amex report authorized user activity?

Yes, Amex does report the activity of authorized users on your account to the credit bureaus. This means that the primary cardholder’s payment behavior can impact the credit of authorized users, and vice versa.