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We're the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a U.S. government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly.

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If I need to have a co-signer, can a lender or dealer require that it be my spouse?

Answer:

No. If you do not individually qualify, the creditor such as a lender or dealer may request a co-signer, guarantor, endorser, or similar party. 

Your spouse may function as this additional party. But a lender or dealer cannot require that it be your spouse.

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