Joint Accounts

Could I Be Responsible for My Partner’s Debt?

Before we get married, I want to know how to protect myself financially

Illustration: Laurie Rollitt

Dear Joint Accounts,

I was fortunate enough to graduate college without any debt, and I’ve been dating a man for a few years now who has more than $100,000 of student loans. I can really imagine a future with this guy, but his huge amount of debt makes me nervous — if we got married, would it become my debt, too? That wouldn’t stop me from wanting to plan a future with him, but before we take that step I want to know what it would mean for me financially. What should I be doing to protect myself?

Sincerely,

Scared of Debt

First, the good news: It’s not true that getting married automatically makes you liable for your spouse’s past debt. When you get married, your credit histories remain separate. That student loan won’t suddenly appear on your credit report, and you won’t automatically be on the hook for any debt your husband incurred before you got married.

This is a common misconception, but it’s common for a reason. The laws around marriage and money are complicated and often confusing, and you’re wise to want to protect yourself, because — here’s the bad news — even if…