I am an authorized user on my ex-spouse's credit cards. He is threatening to withhold spousal support because I made charges on his credit cards.
I went through a divorce about 2 1/2 years ago. When my ex-husband and I divorced we still had several credit cards in both of our names. I got him taken off my cards as an authorized user, but he did not remove me off his cards where I was an authorized user. I have been using the cards now and then and he is now upset because they are showing up on his credit report. I tried calling the credit card companies to get them switched into my name but they refused because he was the primary card holder. He is now threatening to withhold my spousal support because of these debts. Do you know if legally he can do this or would he have to take me to court to be able to withhold payments? The spousal support payments are set up thru the State of AZ on a monthly basis. Any information you have would be appreciated. Thanks.
The essence of your facts are that you are divorced and that your ex-spouse's negligence left you as an authorized user on several credit card accounts. Inexplicably, you made charges on the cards, and apparently did not reimburse your ex-spouse for the charges. Your ex-spouse is now threatening to withhold spousal support payments until the debts are paid.
I am not aware how Arizona law applies in this situation. Consult with attorney in your state to learn what your rights are in this situation.
If you have not already, cut up the cards in question so that you do not make charges on these accounts in the future. Just because you were an authorized user of the accounts does not mean you can incur debt in your ex-spouse's name without consequence. It is clear you are aware of this fact because you removed your ex-spouse as an authorized user on your accounts.
I hope this information helps you Find. Learn & Save.
Best,
Bill
Did you know?
Debt is used to buy a home, pay for bills, buy a car, or pay for a college education. According to the NY Federal Reserve total household debt as of Q4 2023 was $17.503 trillion. Auto loan debt was $1.607 trillion and credit card was $1.129 trillion.
According to data gathered by Urban.org from a sample of credit reports, about 26% of people in the US have some kind of debt in collections. The median debt in collections is $1,739. Student loans and auto loans are common types of debt. Of people holding student debt, approximately 10% had student loans in collections. The national Auto/Retail debt delinquency rate was 4%.
Collection and delinquency rates vary by state. For example, in New Jersey, 16% have student loan debt. Of those holding student loan debt, 7% are in default. Auto/retail loan delinquency rate is 3%.
While many households can comfortably pay off their debt, it is clear that many people are struggling with debt. Make sure that you analyze your situation and find the best debt payoff solutions to match your situation.
