Effects of Marriage on Credit Reports

Credit and Marriage
by Scott Bilker

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 your doing the financing, then they should only be researching your credit background.

The only catch having joint accounts with your husband. 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 they you should be okay.

Have you taken a look at your credit report lately? If not then take a look at both you and your husbands reports. 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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