Credit and Marriage
| by Scott Bilker |
| Scott Bilker is the author of the best-selling books, "Talk Your Way Out of
Credit Card Debt", "Credit Card and Debt Management", and "How to be more Credit
Card and Debt Smart". He is also the Editor and publisher of the FREE DebtSmartŪ
E-mail Newsletter (http://www.debtsmart.com). Sign up today! |
 Scott,
I was 36 when I married. I have excellent credit. However, the man I
married went through a messy divorce and his credit is moderate at
best. If I apply for credit, such as a new car, am I obligated to
list my husband's debts or can I still obtain credit in my own
name?
--Vicky
Vicky,
Thanks for writing!
When you got married you also married
his credit. For better or worse. But that doesn't mean that it has
to entirely affect your credit.
If you apply for that new car, you
won't have to list any of his information unless the cars is going
to be in his name as well. If it's your car, and you're doing the
financing, then they should only be researching your credit
background.
The only problems that can arise are
from any joint accounts. These accounts will show up in your credit
report. But if these accounts are being paid on time, then you should
have no problems.
As long as his credit problems don't
have your name attached to them, you should be okay.
Have you taken a look at your credit
report lately? If not then take a look at both reports (you and your
husbands). I like to use MyFico.com.
You can look at all three credit reports and the overall scores. By
checking your credit report, in advance, you'll know exactly what to
expect when applying for financing.
Good luck and please let me know what
happens!
Regards,
Scott
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