🔐 Universal Credits Access for Shared Admin Users

Camilo Aponte

Camilo Aponte

Last updated on Sep 30, 2026

Overview

Universal Credits (UC) are a flexible credit balance used across Search Atlas tools. However, access to Universal Credits is not automatically granted to every user with Admin permissions on a shared account. This article explains how UC access works for shared admin users and what steps to take if access is needed.

Why Can't I Use Universal Credits as a Shared Admin?

Even if you have Admin access and can see a Universal Credits balance, shared Admin users may not be able to spend Universal Credits. This is a known access limitation tied to how account permissions are structured for shared users.

What Is the Difference Between Admin and Subscription Owner?

It is important to understand the distinction between these two roles:

  • Subscription Owner: The person who purchased the Search Atlas plan. They have full access to Universal Credits and related account settings.
  • Shared Admin: A team member invited to the account and assigned the Admin role. Admins have broad platform permissions but may not automatically have Universal Credits spending access.

How to Get Universal Credits Access as a Shared Admin

If you are a shared Admin who needs Universal Credits access, this requires a backend change by our support team. To request this:

  1. Reach out to our support team and explain that you need Universal Credits access enabled for a shared Admin user.
  2. Provide the relevant account details, such as the shared Admin user's email address, so our team can locate the correct account.
  3. Our team will review the request and apply the necessary permission update.

If you need further assistance, open the chat widget in the bottom-right corner of the platform and type human teammate to be connected with a member of our team.