American Express adds a new requirement for adding authorized users…

One of the great things about the miles and points space is that you have the ability to supercharge your miles and points earning  by adding more players to the ‘game’. Over the years, card issuers have offered lucrative bonuses for adding authorized users. When I signed up for the Chase Sapphire Preferred card for the first time in 2014, I remember there being a bonus for adding an authorized user. Other card issuers have also followed suit, trying to bring new customers into the ecosystem. When it comes to miles, points and credit card rewards, American Express continues to be a big player.

Also Read: How to prevent getting shut down by American Express

American Express Adds New Requirement

American Express frequently offers bonuses for adding authorized users to your existing card account. Sometimes these bonuses are as low as 10,000 points for each user, with a small spend requirement. Every now and then, Amex targets users with even higher bonuses. However, as per Doctor of Credit, American Express is now requiring that one must add the social security number of an authorized user you wish to add to your account. In my opinion, this is not a huge deal, but a necessary requirement to prevent fraud and abuse.

Also Read: American Express shutting down accounts for apparent ‘misuse’

For most of us, this shouldn’t be a big deal. One can totally understand the reason why this requirement is being put in place. While this is just a guess, it could be stemming from the fact that people have abused the authorized user bonuses, especially on certain business card products.

Also Read: Why this is my favorite American Express Credit Card

The Pundit’s Mantra

If you look around on Reddit and other forums, you’ll see the possible reason why Amex is putting this requirement in place. It’s primarily to combat people who were gaming authorized user bonuses by adding phantom users to max out the bonuses.

By putting a requirement to add a social security number, American Express is adding an extra level of verification when someone is looking to add an authorized user on a card account.

What do you think about this new requirement? Tell us in the comments section.

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