Is It Legal to Use a Family Member’s Credit Card?

02 Apr Is It Legal to Use a Family Member’s Credit Card?

Using a family member’s credit card might seem okay. They are, after all, family. However, the unauthorized use of another person’s credit card is a crime. Even if it belongs to someone in your family, using their card without permission is a form of fraud. 

In Arizona, credit card fraud is a felony if the amount is over $250, and a misdemeanor if it’s less. Using a family member’s credit card could mean facing time in jail or prison, and it could also shatter your close relationships. 

To Use Another Person’s Credit Card, You Need Their Express Permission 

There are three types of credit card fraud that happen most often in families:

1. The unauthorized use of a card. This can be done either in person or using the credit card information remotely, which is called card-not-present fraud (CNP).  
2. Applying for a credit card or opening a line of credit using someone else’s personal information. 
3. Taking over an account without authorization.

Credit card fraud can happen to anyone whose family members have access to their personal information. Along with charges of credit card fraud, using some else’s personal information could lead to identity theft charges.

If the victim is over 60, it can be a type of elder abuse. But no matter the relationship, using a family member’s credit card without permission can lead to criminal charges and serious consequences. 

Punishments for Credit Card Fraud in Arizona

Fraudulent use of a credit card is a criminal offense. Depending on the amount, charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony. The class of crime is determined by the value of the goods or services that were charged within a consecutive six-month period. Credit card fraud can even be charged if the stolen money, goods, or services were returned and the charge was credited.  

The punishments for credit card fraud increase depending on the amount of money involved:

• If the value is less than $250, it is a class 1 misdemeanor. This misdemeanor is punishable by a maximum of 180 days in jail, 3 years of probation, and fines up to $2,500. These fines would include costs like criminal defense fees, court fees, or restitution due to the victims. 
• If the value is between $250 and $1,000, it is a class 6 felony. This class of felony is punishable with a minimum prison term of 3 months, and a maximum of over 5 years, depending on previous convictions. These punishments also typically include fines, fees, and restitution, along with the loss of several rights. 
• If the value is over $1,000, it is a class 5 felony. Like the felony class above, there will be a loss of rights and a hit to your wallet, but class 5 felonies have harsher prison terms. The minimum amount of prison time for class 5 felony is 6 months, with the maximum set at over 7 years.

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Credit Card Fraud

If you are facing charges of credit card fraud, you will need a good attorney on your side. Your lawyer will help you navigate the justice system, build a strong defense, and make sure that your rights are not violated. A good lawyer can also mean the difference between incarceration and freedom. 

Don’t gamble on your future—hire an attorney who can help you secure the best outcome for your case. 

Here at Todd Coolidge Law, we give every single client the dedication and attention they deserve. Your case will never be shoved to the side, or inadequately defended. If you are facing criminal charges in Arizona, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/31/25). Photo by Avery Evans on Unsplash.