Love may be priceless, but debt certainly isn’t. When you get married, your finances often become tied to your partner’s, including any debt they bring into the relationship. Whether it’s student loans, credit card balances, or other obligations, marrying someone with debt can create challenges you should understand before saying “I do.”
This guide explains how debt affects marriage, what the legal implications are in different states, and how to plan ahead as a couple. From community property laws to credit reports, we’ll cover everything you need to make informed decisions.
Before you walk down the aisle, it’s important to have open conversations about money. Many couples discover after the wedding that one partner has significant student loan or credit card debt. That can lead to stress, disagreements, and long-term financial struggles if not addressed upfront.
Start by reviewing each other’s full financial picture: debts incurred, credit scores, income, and monthly expenses. It’s not about blaming each other; it’s about creating a financial foundation based on trust.
Marriage doesn’t automatically make you responsible for your spouse’s debt, but it can affect your finances in many ways:
Even if you don’t legally owe your spouse’s debt, it can still limit your household’s financial flexibility and affect your peace of mind.
In nine U.S. states, community property laws apply. These states include California, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, Washington, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, and Wisconsin. Under community property rules, debts and assets acquired during the marriage are considered jointly owned, even if only one spouse signs the loan agreement.
This means that in a community property state, a creditor may pursue either spouse for repayment of debts incurred after the wedding. It doesn’t matter whose name is on the credit card or loan.
If you live in one of these states, it’s especially important to talk about shared financial responsibilities. To learn more about this legal framework, visit Wikipedia’s overview of community property.
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In all other states, known as common law states, debts remain the responsibility of the person who took them on. If your spouse had a credit card balance or student loans before marriage, they alone are legally responsible for those debts, unless you co-signed.
That said, joint accounts or shared credit cards can make you liable for debts even in a common law state. Always read the fine print before opening accounts together, and be clear on who is responsible for payments.
One of the most important steps you can take before or after getting married is checking your credit reports. Each partner should review their credit file from all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
You can request your reports for free at AnnualCreditReport.com, a service authorized by federal law. This helps identify:
Understanding your partner’s credit health helps you prepare for the financial future together. You can also read our guide on how to talk to your spouse about debt for helpful tips.
Any debt your partner took on before the wedding generally remains their separate obligation. However, if you start making payments on that debt or consolidate it into a joint loan, it can muddy the waters.
For example, if your spouse had bad credit and you help them qualify for a new loan, both names may be added to the account. This can affect your credit too, positively or negatively.
Some couples choose to keep these accounts separate to avoid complications. Others treat all debts as shared and pay them off together. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer; it depends on your preferences, financial goals, and level of trust.
Marrying someone with debt doesn’t impact your credit rating directly. Credit reports are individual, so your spouse’s poor payment history won’t show up on your file unless you apply for joint accounts.
However, if you open a joint credit card, co-sign a loan, or become an authorized user, your credit can be affected. That’s why it’s wise to approach joint financial decisions carefully, especially early in the marriage.
For a full overview of how credit works in relationships, check out our article on financial planning for engaged couples.
If your partner is behind on payments, debt collectors may start contacting them. In most cases, collectors can only pursue the person whose name is on the debt. But if you’re in a community property state or have joint accounts, you might receive calls or letters too.
It’s helpful to understand your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). You can find detailed information about debt collection rules from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Debt collection can be stressful, but clear communication and proactive planning make it easier to manage together.
If your partner has children from a previous relationship, they may be legally obligated to pay child support. That obligation does not automatically become yours, but it is part of your shared financial reality as a couple.
Failing to pay child support can lead to wage garnishment, tax refund seizures, or even jail time in extreme cases. Make sure you understand these responsibilities and include them in your household budgeting.
A partner’s bad credit can affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage, rent an apartment, or even get a new cell phone plan. While their credit report doesn’t transfer to you, joint applications will take both scores into account.
If your spouse has bad debt or a low credit score, consider the following:
It’s important to understand the difference between community property states and common law states when it comes to joint debt and income. In community property states, income earned during the marriage is jointly owned, even if only one partner works.
In contrast, common law states consider income and property individually owned unless the couple combines them. This difference can affect who is liable for debts, taxes, and lawsuits.
If you’re unsure about your state’s rules, consult a legal expert or visit this helpful Justia resource on marital property laws.
Debt consolidation can be a useful strategy for couples trying to manage multiple balances. This involves combining several debts into one new loan, often with a lower interest rate or simpler monthly payment.
However, it’s not always the best option, especially if one partner has bad credit or if you’re trying to keep finances separate. Consider the pros and cons before agreeing to take on each other’s debt.
For more insight, explore the benefits and risks in our guide to debt repayment methods.
Some couples prefer joint bank accounts for everything, while others keep their finances partially or completely separate. There’s no right answer, but here are some common options:
Having separate accounts can help limit financial risk if one partner has high debt or spending issues. But joint accounts build transparency and teamwork.
If a spouse passes away, their debts typically become part of their estate. You are not personally liable unless you co-signed, live in a community property state, or are listed as a joint account holder.
That said, surviving spouses often face complicated financial questions during an already difficult time. Planning ahead, reviewing life insurance, and drafting a will can provide protection and peace of mind.
Read more about Dealing with the Sudden Loss of a Loved One.
A prenuptial agreement can clarify who is responsible for what if the marriage ends in divorce. These legal documents are not just for wealthy couples; they can be useful for anyone entering a marriage with significant assets or debts.
A prenup can protect you from being held accountable for your spouse’s debt, define how joint property is split, and establish rules for new debt taken on during the marriage.
Every couple has different limits when it comes to finances. For some, debt is a manageable obstacle. For others, it’s a deal breaker.
Ask yourself:
If the answer to these questions is no, it may be worth seeking premarital counseling or financial guidance before moving forward.
If you’re preparing to get married, consider reviewing the Couples and Money workbook together. It offers exercises and tips to build honest communication about money.
You can also explore ideas in our article on Valentine’s Day savings goals to create shared financial habits that last all year long.
Marriage is about more than love; it’s about partnership, including financial partnership. If you’re dealing with joint debts, credit challenges, or confusing legal obligations, Credit.org is here to help.
We offer free and confidential services, including:
Take the first step toward building a financially healthy marriage. Talk to a certified counselor today and create a plan you both feel good about.
