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Parents who cosign a loan can help their child secure a loan and help them get a lower interest rate. When a parent cosigns their child’s student loan, they also become partially responsible for paying off that debt.
ACCC explains what to know before cosigning a student loan:
1. It may negatively affect your credit score.
If your child misses a payment on the student loan, your credit score can be negatively impacted.
2. Be prepared to pay.
You need to make sure you are financially stable enough to step in and pay if your child misses some or all of a payment.
3. Talking with a financial professional could help.
You may want to speak with a financial professional to find out the impact on your finances if you do have to step in and pay the loan.
4. Parents’ loan requests will be affected.
Your child’s student loan will not only appear on their credit report, but on yours as well when you cosign.
5. It may change the dynamic between a parent and child.
When you cosign for your child, it will naturally lead to tough conversations.
6. There may be better options.
Consider alternatives such as assisting your child in building credit by developing a savings plan.
