Who is liable for credit card debt after divorce?

Who is liable for credit card debt after divorce? Matrimonial debt on divorce Regardless of whether the debt was taken out in the name of one spouse, or as a joint debt, if the debt

Who is liable for credit card debt after divorce?

Matrimonial debt on divorce Regardless of whether the debt was taken out in the name of one spouse, or as a joint debt, if the debt was incurred for the benefit of the family (i.e. both spouses have enjoyed the benefits of the loan), then it is likely that both parties will be jointly responsible for the debt.

Are you responsible for spouse’s credit card debt?

You are generally not responsible for your spouse’s credit card debt unless you are a co-signor for the card or it is a joint account. However, state laws vary and divorce or the death of your spouse could also impact your liability for this debt.

Is spouse responsible for debt after divorce?

You are not responsible for your partner’s debts just because of your relationship, whether you are married or not. However, you may have become liable for his or her debts because you signed a loan contract as a joint borrower or guarantor, or because you were a director of a family company or a partner in a business.

What happens to debt when you get divorced?

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 do I get a divorce with so much debt?

The simple solution: Don’t have any joint accounts. Try to close them all and refinance the house, car and other loans in one person’s name. Cancel shared credit cards and transfer the debt to cards in each person’s name. This is where maintaining a civil relationship with your ex comes in handy.

How is credit card debt divided in a divorce?

When you have credit card debt in both of your names, you are equally liable for the outstanding balance, even following the divorce. The same rule applies to accounts you cosign, and you’ll owe the debt if your partner doesn’t pay up.

How can I not be responsible for my spouse’s debt?

Generally, no. The creditor or debt collector should not report your spouse’s debts to a credit reporting company under your name unless you: were a joint account holder; co-signed for the loan, account, or debt; or live in a community property state.

How is debt treated in a divorce?

In California, each spouse or partner owns one-half of the community property. And, each spouse or partner is responsible for one-half of the debt. Community property and community debts are usually divided equally. If the debt was incurred during your marriage or domestic partnership, it belongs to you too.

Can I be held liable for my spouse’s debts?

Generally, one is only liable for their spouse’s debts if the obligation is in both names. But, unless both the husband and the wife are on the credit card account (even if only as a co-signer), one spouse will not be held liable for the obligation of the other on that account.

Should you pay off debt during a divorce?

Paying Off Other Debts ASAP If you have any joint debt with your spouse and you can afford to, we highly recommend paying off all marital debt, even before you draw up the divorce papers. If not before you file for divorce, try to get it done before you’re officially divorced.