Seventeen-year-olds can’t take out a car loan, or even become a cosigner or co-borrower on one. In the U.S., you absolutely have to be 18 years old in order to legally sign a loan contract. Up until you turn 18, you’re considered a minor by law and can’t enter into a contractual agreement with a lender.

How hard is it to get a personal loan with a cosigner?

Every lender is different, but most prefer cosigners that have a credit score of at least 670. They’ll also need to prove that they’re financially capable of repaying the loan if it ever goes into default. A cosigner can be a trusted friend or family member who feels comfortable taking on this responsibility.

Can a person under 18 get a student loan?

The only type of loans to people under age 18 that don’t require a co-signer are federal student loans, as these are exempt from the legal defense of infancy.

Do you need a co-signer for a student loan?

Explain why you need the loan to your parents or legal guardian, as you will be required to have a co-signer. The only type of loans to people under age 18 that don’t require a co-signer are federal student loans, as these are exempt from the legal defense of infancy.

Can a parent cosign on a car loan?

Typically, this is a parent, but it may be any individual willing to cosign on your loan including an aunt, uncle, mentor or friend. This person is technically the individual with responsibility for the loan since he is the only one legally permitted to enter the contract at the time it is signed.

What happens if you cosign a loan for someone else?

When you cosign a loan, you promise to pay off somebody else’s debt if the borrower stops making payments for any reason. This is a generous act, as it can help a friend or family member get approved for a loan that they otherwise wouldn’t qualify for. But it’s also risky to guarantee a loan for somebody else,…