Do I become responsible for my husband's pre-marriage debt? If so, how could I avoid this besides not marryin?

Question

Do I become responsible for my husband's pre-marriage debt? If so, how could I avoid this besides not marryin?

Answer 1

I'm not sure how his individual debt especially incurred before marriage would be your problem. The only I see this happening is if he had a loan (mortgage, car loan, personal loan) that he had before and then refinanced with you on the loan....in that fashion...you're SOL

Answer 2

Yes, as a couple it is both of your responsibility. Any money he owes is less for the 2 of you. If he doesn't pay stuff your name will be joined to his once married and affecting your credit. If it is debt from college, then you should stand behind him as he saw it important to get a good career.

Answer 3

You are not responsible for any of his debts that were incurred prior to the marriage.  Any accounts you open jointly after marriage will become the responsibility of both of you.

If there is a house involved and it is in your name only, then  I highly recommend you  get a Homestead exemption. It is relatively cheap ($10 to record, probably $50 for an atty to draft), and it prevents creditors from taking the first $100,000 of equity you have in your house. Very cheap protection, and available to single or married people for their primary residence. If you decide to hold the house jointly, make sure you hold it as a tenancy by the entirety. An attorney can explain the significance of this to you, but basically it means that your new spouse's creditors cannot foreclose and take the house while you are alive.

Hope this answers your question

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:  The advice contained herein is for informational purposes only.  It is not to be construed as Legal Counsel nor Legal Advice.

Answer 4

Absolutely not. There is no reason for you to be.

Answer 5

i'm pretty sure that you won't be 100% responsible, since it was HIS debt, but it will affect you.  you'll be partly responsible.

Answer 6

Legally unless your name is on it you are not responsible. A collection agency can not demand payment from you. It won't hurt your credit.

Technically, you are effected as all the money he send to his debt is less money for you as a couple. HIs spending habits will effect your marriage. Money is the number one reason for divorce.

Looking forward, his debt could cause you issues when applying for loans.