A cosigner is a second person who signs a loan with you and agrees to repay it if you do not. Their income and credit can help an application qualify, and they share full responsibility for the debt.
A cosigner adds their own creditworthiness to a loan application, agreeing to be legally responsible for the debt if the primary applicant does not pay. Lenders may consider a cosigner's income and credit history, which can help an application qualify or affect the terms offered. Because the obligation is shared, the loan and its payment history can appear on both people's credit reports, and a missed payment can affect both. A cosigner is generally responsible for the full balance, which distinguishes the role from a co-applicant, who shares ownership of the loan or its proceeds as well as the obligation.
