Should you marry someone with a lot of debt?

Should you marry someone with a lot of debt?

When deciding whether to pop the question ― or agree to a proposal ― it’s important to consider how debt can alter the relationship. From a legal standpoint, bringing debt into a marriage doesn’t mean the other spouse becomes liable for it. That remains the responsibility of the person who accumulated it.

Is a wife responsible for husband’s credit card debt?

In common law states, you’re usually only liable for credit card debt if the obligation is in your name. So, if the credit card is only in your spouse’s name, you’re typically not liable for that debt.

How is debt handled in a divorce?

As part of the divorce judgment, the court will divide the couple’s debts and assets. Generally, the court tries to divide assets and debts equally; however, they can also be used to balance one another. For example, a spouse who receives more property might also be assigned more debt.

How is credit card debt divided in a divorce?

The basics

1. Most importantly, try to leave your marriage with no joint debt.
2. Pay off the joint cards together or divide up the debt on joint cards and transfer it to cards in each partner’s name.
3. Cancel all undiscussed joint credit cards.
4. Clearly agree to who will pay off the debt on which cards.

Does divorce ruin your credit?

Actually filing for divorce doesn’t directly impact credit scores, but if you have late or missed payments on accounts as a result, it may negatively impact credit scores. While a divorce decree may give your former spouse responsibility for a joint account, that doesn’t let you off the hook with lenders and creditors.

Who pays the mortgage during a divorce?

Typically, mortgage debt is assigned to the spouse who makes significantly more than the other spouse. Or it goes to the spouse who is awarded full custody of the children. In those cases, one party will be required to buy out the other’s equity in the home.