When You Should (and Shouldn't) Cosign a Loan

Cosigning a loan is no small decision, as it can have major implications for your credit and finances. While it may seem like a kind gesture to help a friend or family member, it's crucial to understand the risks and considerations involved. Let's take a look at what it means to cosign a loan, when it might be appropriate, and when it's best to avoid doing so.

What does it mean to cosign a loan?

When you cosign a loan, you're essentially lending your good credit to someone else. You become equally responsible for repaying the debt, even though you may not receive any of the borrowed funds. If the primary borrower fails to make payments, the lender can come after you for the money.

Of course, cosigning a loan can indeed help a loved one who doesn't have strong credit. The primary benefit is that it allows someone with poor or limited credit history to obtain a loan they might not qualify for on their own. Especially for something like student loans, cosigning can help a young person access higher education they might not otherwise be able to afford. As long as payments are made on time, it can help the primary borrower build or improve their credit score over time. And even if the cosigner has decent credit on their own, the borrower may secure more favorable loan terms, including lower interest rates and potentially higher loan amounts.

When you might consider cosigning

• You can help a trusted family member: Cosigning means you might be able help out a close family member with a solid plan to afford whatever it is you're cosigning for. If your child or sibling needs help establishing credit and has a clear ability to repay, cosigning might be reasonable.

• It's a short-term loan: You also may be taking on less risk when cosigning for a short-term loan rather than a multi-year commitment. If someone needs a cosigner for something that will be paid off in less than a year, for example, it may be more reasonable.

• You've got deep pockets: If you really have ample financial cushion and would be able to take on the payments if necessary, the risk may be more manageable.

When you should avoid cosigning

• It could impact your ability to qualify for credit: Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio when considering you for new credit accounts. If you already have a high amount of debt, adding a cosigned loan could impact your own ability to qualify for additional credit, too.

• It would strain your finances: In the event that the person your cosigning for can't make payments and you're suddenly on the hook, would you be able to afford it? If that would strain your finances, don't cosign. You have to put your own finances first; and if you're about to apply for a mortgage or other significant loan, cosigning could complicate your own borrowing process.

• You don't trust who you're cosigning for: Most of all, you should never cosign if you have any uncertainty in your relationship with the borrower. If you're not completely confident in the borrower's ability or willingness to repay, it's best to decline.

Alternatives to cosigning

Cosigning a loan isn't the only way to help out a financially strapped loved one:

1. Gift money: Rather than cosign, you might be better off just handing someone money as a gift. This limits your liability and potential credit impact.

2. Secured credit card: For those building credit, a secured credit card (where the user puts down a deposit) can be a lower-risk option.

3. Act as a loan guarantor: Some lenders allow you to be a guarantor, which may have less impact on your credit than cosigning.

4. Help with a larger down payment: Contributing to a down payment can reduce the loan amount, potentially making it easier for the borrower to qualify on their own.

The bottom line

Cosigning a loan is a serious commitment that shouldn't be taken lightly. While it can be a way to help someone you care about, it's essential to carefully consider your own financial situation and the potential risks involved. In many cases, exploring alternatives or simply saying no may be the wisest course of action to protect your financial health.