How to choose the Right Co-Signer for your Car Loan?

What is the meaning of a co-signer?

He/she is as an individual who:

• Signs the loan contract with the borrower;
• Is obligated to repay the loan if the borrower does not make payments;
• Has the joint liability for making regular payments; and
• Has no right to the vehicle.

How is a co-signer different from a co-applicant?

A co-applicant (co-borrower) assumes the same responsibility as a co-signer but he/she enjoys the benefit of ownership. A co-applicant has right to the car.

Who needs a co-signer?

Car buyers who do not have a strong credit application require a co-signer because he/she ensures the lender of regular payments and reduces the lender’s risk. So, a co-signer is often considered a boon by following people because he/she helps them in securing quick finance:

• Young car buyers with no credit history
• People with terrible credit score
• People with low income
• Car buyers with short employment history
• Car buyers with repossession or bankruptcy in the past

Is a co-signer needed for a “joint car loan”?

A car loan is considered a “joint car loan” if the following applicants are involved:

1. A primary borrower
2. A co-applicant or a co-borrower

If both the applicants have credit issues or any other financial problem, lenders make co-signing compulsory.

Who is eligible to become a co-signer?

Usually, parents co-sign car loans for their children. It is for this reason many people believe that the only criterion for becoming a co-signer is to be the relative of the borrower. But, it is a myth. Following are the criteria for becoming a co-signer:

• Preparedness to Co-Sign

Many people will be ready to inform the lenders about their willingness to become your co-signer. But, just an informal promise or a verbal agreement is not enough to become a co-signer. So, ensure that your co-signer is prepared to sign the loan contract and is willing to assume the responsibility of your car loan.

• Good Credit Score

A co-signer is required to have a good credit score. He/she must pay bills on time and have an experience of obtaining a variety of debts such as mortgage loans, credit card debts, personal loans, etc.

Usually, lenders require a co-signer to have a credit history of at least five years. So, make sure that you check the prospective co-signer’s credit history before talking to the lender.

• Ability to Repay the Loan

Lenders don’t allow anyone to become a co-signer. A person can co-sign your loan contract if he/she can repay the loan. Your co-signer needs to submit the financial documents to the lenders so that they can check his/her financial situation:

1. Bank statements
2. Property details
3. Ongoing loan information
4. Pay-stubs
5. IT returns (if the co-signer is self-employed)

• Employment and Residential Stability

If your co-signer switches jobs frequently, lenders will consider his/her employment status unstable and reject your loan application. It is because lenders want a co-signer to have a stable employment.

Also, lenders require a co-signer to have a stable residence history. It is ideal if your prospective co-signer is residing at the same address for at least two years.

So, these are the criteria for becoming a co-signer. If your lender has asked to bring a co-signer, don’t forget to use them. It will help you in choosing the right co-signer for your car loan.