The short answer is no, not legally?unless you co-signed for credit before the wedding or you take out a loan together to pay off debt after you are married. Individual debt obligations brought to the marriage remain that?individual debt obligations. However, debt incurred by your spouse after the “I-do’s” might become your responsibility. It depends on how accounts are titled and/or whether you live in a community property state (Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin). For example, both spouses are responsible for debt in a joint account; and, in community property states, any debt incurred during a marriage is automatically considered joint. While you are not legally responsible for your spouse’s prior debt obligations, that debt and your spouse’s credit score is likely to impact your credit options as a couple. For major purchases such as a home or car, you may need both incomes to qualify for credit. In that case, your spouse’s debt obligations or poor payment record may trigger higher interest rates?or even keep you from getting the loan. We would like your feedback on this Personal Finance Frequently Asked Question.

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