What to do if my employer got me a company credit card that had my name on it but used my personal info to open the account?
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What to do if my employer got me a company credit card that had my name on it but used my personal info to open the account?
I noticed that it was showing up on my online banking statements. Can my employer use my personal information and open a credit card in my name? I did not give permission and had no clue that it was going to be attached to my credit information.
Asked on February 26, 2015 under Employment Labor Law, Iowa
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
A "company" credit card is actually a credit card in an individual employee's name (though it may often also have the company name on it, too), which uses that employee's information and which the employee is ultimately responsible for, if the company fails to pay it; what makes it a "company" card is that it should only be used for company expenses, those company charges will be paid or reimbursed by the company, and if the company fails to reimburse, etc. you for a legitimate business charge, you'd be able to sue them for the money.
It seems there was some miscommunication or failed communication in this case--the company assumed you knew what this meant and was agreeing to it; you assumed a company card was something other than it is. You can let the company know you're not comfortable with this and want to close out the account, though they do have the right to insist, as a term of your employment, that you have the card.
Used properly, this can be a boon to your credit--assuming your company does honor its obligation to pay/reimburse, you will establish further history of prompt payment of charges.
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