Joint Loans

Explore joint loans and their benefits for couples. Compare personalised loan options from a wide lending panel with Choose Wisely. Apply online for joint loans, even if you have bad credit.

Table of contents

Written by Mark Grimley
Read time: ~5 mins
Published: 13th August 2024

Welcome to Choose Wisely, the financial price comparison site dedicated to helping you make informed decisions when it comes to obtaining basic financial products. If you're looking for joint loans to secure funds with your partner, you've come to the right place. We understand that finding suitable financial solutions can be challenging, especially if you have a poor credit profile or limited financial knowledge. That's why we're here to guide you through the process and provide you with personalised loan options. Let's explore joint loans and discover how they can help you achieve your financial goals together.

Can You Get a Joint Loan?

Joint loans are designed specifically for couples or individuals who want to get a loan with a partner. This type of loan allows you to combine your income and creditworthiness, making it easier to qualify for a loan and potentially access better interest rates. Joint loans can be used for various purposes, such as financing home improvements, purchasing a vehicle, or consolidating debts. They provide a great opportunity to work together towards achieving your financial aspirations.

How to Apply for a Joint Loan

Applying for a joint loan is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to apply for a joint loan:

  • Complete a Choose Wisely Eligibility Check: We'll collect some basic information about you to assess your eligibility for joint loans. Don't worry, the form is easy to fill out, and we won't ask for any complicated financial jargon.
  • Compare Loan Options: Once you've submitted your application, we'll provide you with a list of personalised loan options from our wide lending panel. Take your time to review the offers and choose the one that best suits your needs.
  • Apply Online: After selecting a loan option, you can complete the application process online. Provide the necessary details and submit your application directly to your lender

Can I Apply for a Joint Loan Online?

Yes, you can apply for a joint loan online. Choose Wisely works with a wide lending panel including some that offer joint loans.

Can I Get a Joint Loan with My Partner?

Whether you're married, in a civil partnership, or living together as a couple, you can apply for a joint loan with your partner. Combining your financial resources and creditworthiness can increase your chances of getting approved for a loan and potentially accessing better interest rates. It's a way to achieve your financial goals together as a team.

How Do Joint Loans Work?

Joint loans work by allowing two individuals to apply for a loan together, pooling their income and creditworthiness. Here's how joint loans typically work:

  • Joint Application: Both you and your partner will submit a joint loan application, providing your personal details, income information, and any existing financial commitments.
  • Combined Income and Credit Assessment: Lenders will consider the combined income and creditworthiness of both applicants when assessing the loan application. This can increase your chances of qualifying for a loan and may result in better loan terms.
  • Shared Responsibility: If your joint loan application is approved, both you and your partner become jointly responsible for repaying the loan. This means that if one partner fails to make repayments, the other partner is still liable for the full loan amount.
  • Repayment Agreement: It's essential to discuss and agree upon a repayment plan with your partner. Make sure both of you are comfortable with the repayment amount, frequency, and duration.

Remember, joint loans can strengthen your financial standing as a couple, but it's crucial to maintain open communication and financial transparency throughout the loan term.

Where Can I Get a Joint Loan?

Choose Wisely provides access to a wide lending panel, giving you a range of options to choose from, including joint loans. We understand that finding the right loan can be overwhelming, especially if you have bad credit or limited financial knowledge. That's why we're here to simplify the process, helping you to compare personalised loan options, and supporting you in securing the loan that best meets your needs.

Who is Responsible for a Joint Loan?

When you apply for a joint loan, both you and your partner are equally responsible for repaying the loan. This means that if one partner is unable to make the repayments, the other partner is still liable for the full loan amount. It's crucial to have open communication and financial transparency with your partner to ensure both of you understand the responsibilities and commit to the loan repayment plan.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Joint Loans?

Like any financial product, joint loans come with their own set of pros and cons. Let's explore them in a nutshell:

  • Increased Chances of Approval: Combining your income and creditworthiness with your partner can increase the likelihood of getting approved for a loan, especially if one of you has a stronger credit profile.
  • Better Interest Rates: If you have a strong joint application, you may be eligible for better interest rates compared to individual loan applications.
  • Shared Responsibility: Joint loans allow you to share the financial responsibility with your partner, making it a collaborative effort towards achieving your goals.
  • Joint Liability: Both you and your partner are equally responsible for repaying the loan. If one partner defaults on payments, it can negatively affect both credit scores.
  • Relationship Impact: Applying for a joint loan involves a significant financial commitment. It's essential to discuss and agree upon the loan terms to avoid potential strain on your relationship.

Joint Loans FAQs

Can I get a joint loan if I have bad credit?

Yes, it is possible to get a joint loan even if you have bad credit. By combining your credit profile with your partner's, you may have a higher chance of securing a loan. However, keep in mind that having bad credit may affect the interest rates offered to you.

How long does it take to get a joint loan approved?

The time it takes to get a joint loan approved can vary depending on the lender and your individual circumstances. Some lenders offer quick decisions, while others may take longer to process the application. It's best to check with the lender directly for their estimated turnaround time.

Can I use a joint loan for debt consolidation?

Yes, joint loans can be used for debt consolidation. Consolidating your debts into a single joint loan can simplify your finances and potentially reduce the interest rate you're paying. It's important to carefully consider the terms and ensure that consolidation is the right choice for your situation before proceeding.

Can I apply for a joint loan if I'm not married or in a civil partnership?

Yes, you can apply for a joint loan even if you're not married or in a civil partnership. Joint loans are open to couples living together, whether they're in a long-term committed relationship or not.

Can I apply for a joint loan with my friend or family member?

Joint loans are typically designed for couples or individuals in a close personal relationship. While some lenders may allow joint loans with friends or family members, it's essential to check with the lender directly to understand their specific requirements and eligibility criteria.

Can I apply for a joint loan online with Choose Wisely?

Yes, you can conveniently apply for a joint loan online with Choose Wisely. Our user-friendly platform allows you to complete the entire application process from the comfort of your own home. Simply visit our website, fill out the short application form, and compare personalised loan options. Once you decide on a lender you can visit their website directly to complete the application.

What happens if one partner cannot make the loan repayments?

In a joint loan, both partners are equally responsible for repaying the loan. If one partner is unable to make the repayments, the other partner is still liable for the full loan amount. It's crucial to have open communication and financial transparency to address any difficulties and find a solution together.

What information do I need to provide for a joint loan application?

When applying for a joint loan, you'll typically need to provide personal information about both you and your partner, such as full names, addresses, dates of birth, employment details, and income information. Lenders may also require information about your existing financial commitments and credit history.

Will applying for a joint loan affect our individual credit scores?

When you apply for a joint loan, the lender will likely check the credit history of both applicants. This credit check may have a temporary impact on your individual credit scores. However, if you both manage the joint loan responsibly and make repayments on time, it can have a positive long-term impact on your credit profiles.

Written by
Mark Grimley
Head of Partnerships & Take Control Author at Choose Wisely

Mark joined Choose Wisely in 2015. He continues to work in close contact with the providers, brokers and journalists operating in the world of consumer credit.

Important Information.

All of the information in this guide is correct at the time of writing.

If you complete a loan search application on the Choose Wisely website, the rates shown may vary based on your personal circumstances, are subject to status and are available to those aged 18 and over. Rates available range from a minimum of 13.9%APR to a maximum of 1721%APR Representative and loan repayment periods range from 3 to 60 months.

If you need financial advice you can visit stepchange, speak to citizens advice, call the national debtline or speak to moneyhelper.org.uk.

If you've been declined, please refer to your credit report to gain an understanding of why before making further applications.
You can access your credit report for free from Credit Karma, Clearscore or Experian.