Adding a teenager as an authorized user on your credit card can seem like a smart move to help them build credit early. However, as many parents have experienced, it often backfires. The phrase "Authorized User Gone WRONG" perfectly captures the situation when teens, given access to the card, make unwise purchases like gaming consoles or in-game items, such as a PlayStation subscription or Fortnite credits, without fully understanding the financial impact. From the OCR content, it's clear that parents sometimes add their children with good intentions—to give them a financial head start—but end up facing unexpected charges and lessons in financial responsibility. It's essential to realize that being an authorized user means your teen has real spending power, and it’s not "play money." Before adding your child, consider these points: 1. Education First: Teach your teenager about budgeting, credit card statements, interest rates, and the consequences of unpaid balances. Financial literacy is foundational and should precede card access. 2. Set Clear Rules: If you decide to add them, set firm boundaries on spending limits and approved categories. Monitor statements regularly together to foster accountability. 3. Alternative Approaches: Instead of adding them as authorized users, consider prepaid cards or secured credit cards designed specifically for teenagers to learn responsible spending. 4. Open Communication: Encourage your teen to discuss any purchases they want to make, cultivating trust and financial decision-making skills. Remember, your credit card is not just a tool—it’s a responsibility. The decision to share it with your teenager should be carefully thought through to avoid financial strain and teach valuable credit management lessons early on. Would you trust your teenager with your card? Most experts advise caution and strong financial education before doing so.