Understanding the roles of guarantors and cosigners is crucial when securing loans or rental agreements. This guide will help you navigate the key differences and responsibilities associated with each, ensuring you make informed decisions.
What is a Cosigner?
A cosigner signs a loan agreement alongside the primary borrower, agreeing to share equal responsibility for the debt. Cosigners are commonly used in personal loans and student loans.
Even if only on paper, a cosigner is considered an additional tenant. This individual is also willing to share a tenant’s financial obligations, such as any potential fees, unpaid rent, or damaged property. A cosigner generally has better credit than the renter and a higher income because they must show an income of at least six times the rent to qualify. Young or first-time renters may find it much easier to qualify for a rental home with a co-signer.
Responsibilities of a Cosigner
- Shared Financial Responsibility: Cosigners are equally liable for the loan repayment.
- Credit Score Impact: Both the borrower’s and cosigner’s credit scores are affected by the loan’s repayment history.
- Legal Consequences: Cosigners can be pursued legally if the loan is not repaid.
What is a Guarantor?
A guarantor is someone who agrees to pay a borrower’s debt if the borrower defaults on a loan. Guarantors are often used in rental agreements to provide landlords with additional security.
In contrast to a co-signer, a guarantor is not regarded as a tenant and does not have the same rights. A guarantor can be viewed as a financial safety net if the tenant cannot meet his or her financial obligations. Like a co-signer, a guarantor must typically show income of at least 6 times the monthly rent.
Responsibilities of a Guarantor
- Financial Liability: Guarantors are responsible for covering the debt if the primary borrower fails to pay.
- Credit Impact: The guarantor’s credit score can be affected if the borrower defaults.
- Legal Obligations: Guarantors may face legal action if they fail to fulfill their obligations.
Key Differences Between Guarantors and Cosigners
Financial Responsibility
- Guarantors: Only responsible if the borrower defaults.
- Cosigners: Equally responsible from the start.
Legal Obligations
- Guarantors: Legal action is taken only if the borrower defaults.
- Cosigners: Can face legal action alongside the borrower.
Credit Impact
- Guarantors: Credit score is affected only if the borrower defaults.
- Cosigners: Credit score is impacted by the loan’s repayment history from the beginning.
When to Use a Guarantor vs. a Cosigner
Use a Guarantor When:
- You need additional security for a rental agreement.
- The primary borrower has a low credit score but can manage the payments.
Use a Cosigner When:
- The primary borrower needs help qualifying for a loan.
- Both parties are willing to share equal responsibility for the debt.
Choosing between a guarantor and a cosigner depends on the specific financial situation and the level of responsibility each party is willing to take on. Understanding these roles can help you make better financial decisions and ensure smoother transactions.
When requesting a person to be your cosigner or guarantor, being truthful about your financial situation is crucial. Clarify why you require their support and their role if you cannot pay your rent. You must also supply them with proper documentation, such as your lease or proof of income. Last but not least, be sure they are aware that if you are unable to pay your rent, they may be held accountable. Therefore, choosing someone you can trust and who is financially secure is preferable.
If you have additional inquiries, please contact one of our expert residential property managers.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
