Using a Coborrower on Your Loan

What Is a Co-Borrower? Using a Co-Borrower on Your Loan

Loans have become an integral part of American financial life. We need a mortgage to buy our first home, and an auto loan to purchase a car. More recently, people are turning to personal loans to cover surprise bills and avoid high-interest credit card debt. But just because you need a loan doesn’t mean a lender is going to give you the loan — and interest rate — you want.

If you’re struggling to qualify for a loan, a friend or family member may be able to help by becoming a co-borrower. By leveraging their income, credit score, and financial history, you may qualify for better loan terms. Let’s dive into the details.

Key Points

•   A co-borrower shares responsibility for loan repayment and ownership of purchased property, unlike a cosigner who only supports the loan application.

•   Applying with a co-borrower can improve loan terms due to combined financial profiles.

•   Lenders consider credit scores, income, employment, and debt-to-income ratios when evaluating co-borrowers.

•   Co-borrowing can lead to better loan terms, but both parties are equally liable for repayment.

•   On-time payments can boost credit scores, while missed payments can negatively impact credit.

Understanding Co-Borrowers

As you’re considering your options, a natural first question may be, what is a co-borrower? Essentially, a loan co-borrower takes on the loan with you, and their name will be on the loan with yours. They will be equally responsible for paying the loan back and will have part ownership of whatever the loan buys. When you take out a mortgage with someone, the co-borrower will own half the home.

Spouses often co-borrow when buying property, and when taking out a personal loan for a home improvement or remodeling project. In other circumstances, two parties become co-borrowers in order to qualify for a larger loan or better loan terms than if they were to take out a loan solo.

Having a co-borrower can help two people who both want to achieve a financial goal — like first-time homeownership or buying a new car — put in a stronger application than they might have on their own. The lender will have double the financial history to consider, and two borrowers to rely on when it comes to repayment. Therefore, the loan is a less risky prospect, which may translate to more favorable terms.

Recommended: All About Variable Interest Rate Loans

Qualifying as a Co-Borrower

If you’re planning to have a co-borrower on your personal loan application, it helps to understand what criteria you both must meet in order to be accepted by the lender. Let’s take a closer look at common factors lenders consider.

Credit Score

A credit score can have a significant impact on whether your loan application is approved and what terms you’re offered. There’s no magic number, but generally speaking, lenders prefer to see a score of 670 or higher. You and your co-borrower may want to check your credit scores for free before you apply.

Proof of Income and Employment

To help them determine whether co-borrowers can afford loan payments, a lender will likely want to see proof of a stable income and employment. You both may be asked to provide recent pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. You might also be asked to show a letter from your employers verifying your employment status, how long you’ve both been employed, and your salaries.

Debt-to-Income Ratio

Debt-to-income ratio, or DTI ratio, is a comparison of your monthly debts to your gross monthly income (before taxes). Lenders use this information to help determine how risky it would be to loan money to a borrower. It can affect your ability to borrow money and the interest rate you’ll receive. Generally, lenders like to see a DTI that’s no higher than 36%, though there may be some wiggle room.

In addition to the above, lenders also usually consider:

•   Financial history. This includes recent bankruptcies, judgments, and liens.

•   Age. Many lenders have a minimum age for co-borrowers, typically 21 to 25 years of age.

•   Citizenship. Co-borrowers generally must be either citizens or permanent residents of the U.S.

Co-Borrower Process

Applying for a loan with a co-borrower? The application process is fairly similar to the one you’d follow if you were applying alone.

A good first step is to reach out to your lender and start the prequalification process. If your co-borrower has a strong credit profile, that could improve your odds of qualifying for better rates and terms.

Next, you and your co-borrower will need to complete the loan application. You’ll also both undergo credit checks, and the lender will evaluate your finances. You may be asked to provide documentation like pay stubs, bank statements, or tax forms.

Within a few days or so, you’ll find out if you’re approved and what your loan terms are. Once you agree to the terms, your loan funds will be disbursed, usually within a week. Your lender will also share details about how to make monthly payments.

Co-Borrower vs. Cosigner

A cosigner plays a slightly different role than a co-borrower. A cosigner’s income and financial history are still factored into the loan decision, and their positive credit standing benefits the primary applicant’s loan application. But a cosigner does not share ownership of any property the loan is used to purchase. And a cosigner will help make loan payments only if the primary borrower is unable to make them.

Cosigning helps assure lenders that someone will pay back the loan. Typically, a cosigner has a stronger financial history than the primary borrower. This can help someone get approved for a loan they might not qualify for on their own, or secure better terms.

No matter which route you choose, there are potential credit implications to keep in mind. For example, when you apply for a loan, the lender will likely do a hard credit pull. This may cause credit scores to temporarily dip for you and your cosigner or co-borrower.

Both parties may also see a drop in their credit score if monthly payments are late or missed altogether. (And remember, cosigners will be on the hook for making loan payments if the main account holder can’t.) On the flip side, on-time payments can help boost or build credit scores.

When should you choose a cosigner vs. a co-borrower? The answer depends on your situation and goals. If you intend on sharing ownership of whatever you buy with the loan, then a co-borrower may be a good choice. If you simply need someone with a strong credit history to bolster your loan application, then consider using a cosigner.

Recommended: What Is Revolving Credit?

The Takeaway

Taking out a loan is a big decision, and doing so with a co-borrower carries additional risks. A co-borrower is a partner in the loan and any property the loan is used to purchase. If one borrower cannot make their payments, the co-borrower will be on the hook for the full amount. But if both parties can come to an agreement about how they’ll handle any financial hardships, co-borrowing can have major benefits. By pooling their income and debt, they may lower their debt-to-income ratio and qualify for a mortgage or personal loan with a lower interest rate and better terms.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.


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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Closing a Credit Card With a Balance: What to Know

Closing a Credit Card With a Balance: What to Know

Closing a credit card with a balance remaining is possible to do. However, keep in mind that even if your credit card account is closed, you’ll still have to pay off the remaining balance. Additionally, you’ll need to cover interest that’s accrued as well as any fees, and you could face other consequences, including losing out on rewards and seeing potential impacts to your credit score.

Still, there are instances when closing a credit card can be the right move. If you’re thinking about closing a credit card account with an outstanding balance, you’ll want to weigh these considerations — and also ensure you have a plan for paying off your remaining balance.

What Happens If You Close a Credit Card Account With a Balance?

Once you’ve closed a credit card account with a balance, you’ll no longer be able to use that card to make purchases. Beyond that, here’s what else you can expect after your account closure.

Payment of Balance and Interest

Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when a credit card is closed with balance is that you’re still liable for the credit card balance you’ve racked up. You’ll also owe any interest charges that have accrued on your outstanding balance.

As such, expect to continue receiving monthly statements from your credit card issuer detailing your balance, accrued interest, and minimum payment due. And until you’re absolutely positive your debt is paid off, keep on checking your credit card balance regularly.

Recommended: What is a Charge Card

Loss of Promotional APR

If the card you closed offered a promotional interest rate, this offer will likely come to an end. If you’ve been carrying a balance on a credit card, your balance could start to accrue interest. Plus, you may have to pay the standard APR (annual percentage rate) on the remaining balance rather than the lower promotional rate.

Loss of Rewards

Before you move forward with canceling a credit card that offers rewards like points or airline miles, make sure you’ve redeemed any rewards you’ve earned. That’s because you may forfeit those rewards if you close your account.

Policies on this can vary from issuer to issuer though, so just make sure to check with your credit card company to be safe rather than sorry.

How Closing Credit Cards With Balances Can Impact Your Credit

There are a number of ways that closing credit card accounts with a balance can adversely affect your credit score given how credit cards work. Closed accounts in good standing will remain on your credit report for 10 years, whereas those with derogatory marks may fall off after seven years.

•   For starters, closing your account could drive up your credit utilization ratio, one of the factors that goes into calculating your score. This ratio is determined by dividing your total credit balances by the total of all of your credit limits. Financial experts recommend keeping your ratio below 30% and preferably closer to 10%. Losing the available credit on your closed account can drive up this ratio.

•   Closing your account can impact your credit mix, as you’ll have one fewer line of credit in the mix.

•   Closing a credit card could decrease your length of credit history if the card you closed was an old one. This too could potentially decrease your credit score.

That being said, the impacts can vary depending on your credit profile and the credit scoring model that’s being used. If, after closing your account, you pay off your account balance in a timely manner and uphold good credit behavior across other accounts, your score can likely bounce back.

Recommended: What is the Average Credit Card Limit?

Is Keeping the Credit Card Account Open a Better Option?

In some scenarios, it may make sense to keep your credit card active, even if you don’t plan on spending on the card. Here’s when opting against closing your credit card account might be the right move:

•   When you can switch credit cards: If your card carrier allows it, you might be able to switch to a different credit card it offers rather than closing out your account entirely. This might make sense if you’re worried about your card’s annual fee, for instance. You’ll still owe any outstanding debt on the old credit card, which will get moved over to the new card (the same goes if you happen to have a negative balance on a credit card).

•   When you have unused credit card rewards: With a rewards credit card, closing the account may jeopardize the use of earned rewards. Avoid that scenario by keeping the credit card active until you’ve used up all the rewards earned on your current credit card or at least until you’ve transferred them to a new credit card, if that’s an option.

•   When you don’t use the credit card: Even if you don’t use your credit card or use it sparingly, keeping the card open could build your credit score. This is because creditors and lenders usually look more favorably on credit card users who don’t rack up significant credit card debt, which is why maintaining a low credit utilization ratio is one of the key credit card rules to follow.

Nevertheless, there are certainly some scenarios when it can make sense to say goodbye to your credit card account. Here’s when to cancel your credit card, or at least consider it:

•   You want to avoid the temptation to spend.

•   You want to stop paying your card’s annual fee.

•   The card’s interest rate is rising.

•   You’d like to have fewer credit card accounts to manage.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest On a Credit Card

Guide to Paying Off a Credit Card Balance

No matter what you do with your credit card account, you’re going to have to pay down your credit card debt. Here are some options you can explore to pay off your closed credit account with a balance as soon as possible.

To avoid making that mistake, here are some options you can explore to pay off your closed credit account with a balance as soon as possible.

Debt Consolidation Loans

A personal loan at a decent interest rate can make it easier to curb and eliminate your card debt. Once the funds from the loan hit your bank account, you can use the cash to pay off all your credit card debts. Then, you’ll only have to keep track of paying off that one loan with fixed monthly payments, making it easier to manage.

Keep in mind that you’ll generally need good credit to secure a personal loan with competitive terms, though.

Balance Transfer Credit Cards

A balance transfer card with a 0% introductory interest rate can buy you some time when paying down debt. You can transfer your existing debt to the new card, allowing you to pay down credit card debt at a lower interest rate, without racking up any additional interest payments during the promotional period.

Just make sure to pay off the entire balance before the card’s introductory interest rate period ends and the interest rate rises significantly. Otherwise, you may be right back where you started — with high credit card debt and a high interest rate. That’s not likely to be a good way to use credit responsibly. Also note that a ​​ balance transfer fee will likely apply.

Debt Avalanche or Snowball

For credit card debt repayment, consider the debt avalanche or snowball approach.

•   With the avalanche debt repayment method, you prioritize paying off your credit card with the highest interest rate first. Meanwhile, you’ll maintain minimum payments on all of your other debts. Once your highest-rate debt is paid off, you’ll roll those funds over to tackle your balance with the next highest interest rate.

•   The snowball method, on the other hand, is all about building up momentum toward debt payoff. Here, you pay as much as possible each month toward your credit card with the lowest outstanding balance, while making minimum payments on all of your other outstanding debts. When the smallest debt is paid off completely, repeat the process with the next smallest balance.

Debt Management Plan

If you’re still having trouble paying down your credit card either before or after you close the account, that could be a red flag signaling that you need help. In this case, consider reaching out to an accredited debt management counselor who can set you on the right path to credit debt insolvency.

In addition to helping you create a debt management plan, a credit counselor can help by negotiating a better deal on interest rates and lower monthly payments. That could result in paying down your credit card debt more quickly, which not only saves you money, but also helps protect your credit score.

Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score?

The Takeaway

If you decide to close your credit card account with a balance, it’s critical to do so in a way where your debt obligations are covered and your credit score is protected. The key to doing the job right is to work with your card company, keep a close eye on outstanding balances and payment deadlines, and work aggressively to pay your card debt down as quickly as possible.

Since closing a credit card can have consequences, it’s especially important to consider a credit card ‘s pros and cons carefully before you apply.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Can you close a credit card with a balance?

Closing a credit card with a balance is possible. However, you’ll still be responsible for the outstanding balance on the card, as well as any interest charges and fees.

Does it hurt your credit to close a credit card with a balance?

Closing your credit card with a balance remaining has the potential to impact your credit score. However, the exact implications for your score can vary depending on your overall credit profile and which credit scoring model is being used.

Is it better to close a credit card or leave it open with a zero balance?

That depends on your personal situation. Closing a card for good may impact your credit score, but you also won’t be able to use the card again and risk racking up unwanted debt in the process.

What happens if you close a credit card with a negative balance?

If you close a credit card with a negative balance, that means the card issuer owes you money instead of vice versa. In this situation, the card issuer will typically refund you that money before closing out the account.

How do I close a credit card without hurting my credit score?

You can mitigate the impacts of closing your account by paying off the balance on that account and all other credit card accounts you have. If you have $0 balances, then closing your account and losing that available credit won’t affect your credit utilization rate.


Photo credit: iStock/staticnak1983

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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Debt Avalanche Method: A Smart Strategy for Paying Off Debt

Debt is a slippery slope. You can be doing just fine when an unexpected bill starts a slide. Maybe you use a credit card or three to keep up for a while. But one setback — like major car repairs — throws you off balance again, and eventually debt begins to swallow you up.

But there’s good news. First, you’re not alone. Second, millions of people like you have dug themselves out of debt using the Debt Avalanche Method. This debt reduction strategy focuses your efforts on the debts with the highest interest rates. Keep reading to learn the advantages and disadvantages of this strategy, as well as some proven alternatives for paying off debt.

Key Points

•   The Debt Avalanche Method focuses on paying off high-interest debts first, and making minimum payments on others, to save on interest and reduce overall debt faster.

•   Ideal for disciplined, logical individuals who prioritize long-term savings over quick wins, the method isn’t suitable for all debts; mortgages are considered “good” debt and should be excluded.

•   Alternatives like the Snowball Method or debt consolidation loans may be better for those needing quick motivation or dealing with multiple high-interest debts.

•   Psychological factors such as discipline, motivation by long-term goals, and the ability to celebrate self-made milestones influence the method’s success.

•   Consider interest rates on your debt, your financial goals, and personal preferences when weighing your options.

Understanding the Debt Avalanche Method

The Avalanche Method is all about the interest rate. Essentially, you’ll make the minimum payments toward all of your debts but put anything extra you can (bonuses, tax refunds, that $20 your grandma stuck in your pocket) toward paying off the high-interest debt at the top of the list. When it’s paid off, move on to the debt with the second-highest interest rate and so on.

Fans of the Debt Avalanche Method laud its efficiency. The most expensive debt is ditched first, which can be a big money saver. And the amount of time it takes to get out of debt overall is cut too, because less interest accumulates every month.

Debt Avalanche Method vs. Other Payoff Strategies

The Avalanche is for rational thinkers. But when it comes to money — and life in general — humans tend to follow their gut. That’s why some people prefer the Avalanche’s more emotionally available cousin, the Snowball Method.

With the Snowball Method, the steps are much the same, but you start your list with the smallest balance and work your way toward the largest, disregarding the interest rate. The idea is that those first targets can be knocked down quickly, creating a sense of accomplishment that helps keep you on task until it becomes a habit.

There are pros and cons to each method. If you use the Avalanche, it may take longer to move from one debt to the next. Also, this method assumes paying off debt as quickly as possible is always the right thing to do. But there are other factors to consider, like your credit score. That said, if you have a larger balance with higher interest rates, you could save money over time.

If you plan to pay off debt with the Snowball Method, you’re more likely to experience quick wins, which could help you stay motivated. But you probably won’t save as much on overall interest as you would with the Avalanche.

If you have multiple high-interest balances, you may want to consider a debt consolidation loan. These personal loans roll several debts into a single loan, which ideally has a lower interest rate. This approach can be a smart move if you’re able to stay on top of monthly payments and have a strong credit score.

Implementing the Debt Avalanche Method

Interested in trying the Debt Avalanche Method? It helps to get your finances organized first.

First, make a budget. Find ways to trim the fat from anything you can — dinners out, streaming services — so you’ll have more cash to pay toward that smothering debt. If you need help, here’s a guide to the 70-20-10 rule of budgeting.

Then make a list of all your debts. Start with the loan or credit card that has the highest interest rate, and work your way down to the one with the lowest interest rate. Continue to make the minimum payments on all your debts, but put anything you can (bonuses, tax refunds, that $20 your grandma stuck in your pocket) toward paying off the high-interest debt at the top of the list.

When the first debt on your list is paid off, cross it off and move to the next debt on your list. Roll whatever payment you were making on the first debt into the second debt, adding it on to the minimum payment. When that debt is paid off, do the same with the third on the list. As you continue paying off outstanding debt, you should have more and more money to put toward the next target balance. Keep going until you’ve plowed through each debt on your list and can declare yourself debt-free.

Depending on how much you owe, it could take some time before you’re able to move from one debt to another. Adopting sound financial habits, like tracking spending and using a budget app, can help you stick to your payoff plan.

Is the Debt Avalanche Method Right for You?

Using the Avalanche Method to pay off debt isn’t necessarily a good fit for everyone. The method is great for disciplined, analytical thinkers who get excited by the knowledge that they’re playing the long game. To make this approach a success, it helps to be the type of person who is self-disciplined, self-motivated, self-aware, and capable of celebrating self-made milestones.

Alternative debt payoff strategies, like the Snowball Method or a personal loan, may make more sense for your lifestyle, financial situation, and personal preferences.

Here are some questions to ask yourself as you weigh your options:

•   What are my short- and long-term financial goals?

•   Do I have high-interest debt?

•   Do I need a series of quick wins to stay motivated?

Maximize the Benefits of the Debt Avalanche Method

Before you begin tackling debt with the Avalanche Method, consider some strategies to get the maximum benefits:

•  Accelerate debt repayment. Paying off your balance doesn’t just relieve stress — it can also save on interest. Kick in more than the minimum payment each month. And if your lender and budget allow, make extra payments.

•  Build an emergency fund. While whittling down debt is the priority, it’s also a good idea to sock away money into an emergency fund. Determine a target amount — a good rule of thumb is to have enough to cover three to six months of expenses. Then open a high-yield savings account and add to it regularly.

•  Seek the help of a professional. Looking for personalized guidance? Consider meeting with a financial advisor, who can examine your current finances, discuss your financial goals, and help you create a plan to achieve them.

The Takeaway

Using the Debt Avalanche Method is a great way to pay off debt for disciplined, logical personalities who want to maximize their savings on interest. The Avalanche works by paying down the highest-interest debt first, regardless of balance, while making minimum payments only on other debts. It’s not for everyone, though, especially if your highest-interest debt is also your biggest balance.

If quick wins help you stay motivated, consider paying off debt with the Snowball Method. Instead of focusing on interest rate, borrowers prioritize the lowest balance first. A debt consolidation loan is another potential avenue to explore, as you can roll multiple high-interest debts into a single loan with (hopefully) a better interest rate.

The key to any debt payoff strategy is to know yourself and choose the method that best fits your preferences and financial goals.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

FAQ

How long does it take to pay off debt using the Avalanche Method?

While the Avalanche Method tends to whittle down debt faster than making minimum payments each month, the time it takes for you to pay off your balance will depend on the amount you owe, your interest rate, and how much extra you’re able to pay each month.

Can the Debt Avalanche Method be used for all types of debt?

The Avalanche isn’t suited for every type of debt. Consider using it to pay off credit cards, personal loans, student loans, and car loans. Don’t include your mortgage, as financial experts consider this “good” debt. One day, you may decide to put extra money toward paying down your mortgage principal, but for now, focus on your other debts.

What should I do if I have multiple debts with
similar interest rates?

When faced with paying down multiple debts with similar interest rates, the Snowball Method may be your best approach. It involves paying off your lowest balance first, while making minimum payments on your other debts. If the interest rates are high, you may want to explore a debt consolidation loan. That’s where you take out one loan or line of credit (ideally with a lower interest rate) and use it to pay off other debts.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Credit Card Refinancing vs Consolidation

If you have high-interest credit card debt and are ready to put together a plan to pay it back, you might be considering one of two popular methods: credit card refinancing vs. debt consolidation.

Both involve paying off your debt with another credit card or loan, ideally at a lower interest rate. Still, the two methods are not the same, and both options require careful consideration. Below, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each debt payback method, so you can make an informed decision.

Key Points

•   Credit card refinancing transfers high-interest debt to a lower-interest card, often with a 0% APR promotional period, to save on interest.

•   Debt consolidation combines multiple debts into one loan, simplifying payments and potentially reducing interest.

•   Refinancing is ideal for smaller debts that can be paid off quickly, while consolidation suits larger debts needing structured payments.

•   Consider credit score, debt amount, and your financial situation when choosing between refinancing and consolidation.

•   Refinancing may incur fees and affect credit scores, while consolidation offers fixed payments but may not significantly lower interest.

What Is Credit Card Refinancing?

Credit card refinancing is the process of moving your credit card balance(s) from one card or lender to another with a lower interest rate. The main purpose of refinancing is to reduce the amount of interest you’re paying with a lower rate while you pay off the balance.

A common way to accomplish this is to pay off your existing credit cards with a brand-new balance transfer credit card. This type of card offers a low or 0% interest rate for a promotional period that may last from a few months to 18 months or more.

Recommended: The Risks of Payday Loans

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Benefits of Credit Card Refinancing

We’ve discussed the goal of credit card refinancing — to lower your interest rate — and how to accomplish it. Now let’s explore some of the benefits (and drawbacks) of refinancing.

Pros of Refinancing

•  You may qualify for a promotional 0% APR during your card’s introductory period. If you can pay down your debt during this time, you could potentially get out of debt faster.

•  Depending on the interest rate you’re offered, you could save money in interest charges.

•  Bill paying may be easier if you decide to refinance multiple credit cards into one new credit card.

•  If monthly payments are reasonable, it may be easier to consistently pay them on time. This can help build your credit score.

Cons of Refinancing

•  The introductory 0% interest period is short-term, and after it ends, the interest rate can skyrocket to as high as 25%.

•  There may be a balance transfer fee of 3%-5%, which can add to your debt.

•  0% interest balance transfer cards often require a good or excellent credit score to qualify.

•  Your credit score may temporarily dip a few points when you apply for a new credit card or loan. That’s because the lender will likely run a hard credit check.

Recommended: Loans With No Credit Check

Who Should Consider Credit Card Refinancing?

Credit card refinancing isn’t right for everyone. That said, a balance transfer to a 0% APR card could be a good move if you have a smaller debt to manage or are carrying multiple high-interest debts. Plus, transferring multiple balances into one card can streamline bills.
Refinancing may make sense if you’re looking for better terms on your credit card debt, qualify for a 0% APR, and can pay off the balance before the promotional period ends.
So, as you’re weighing your options, you’ll want to consider a number of factors, including:

•  Your credit score and credit history

•  How much debt you have

•  Your personal finances

What Is Credit Card Debt Consolidation?

Credit card consolidation refers to the process of paying off multiple credit cards or other types of debt with a single loan, referred to as a debt consolidation loan. The main purpose of consolidation is to simplify bills by combining multiple credit card payments into one fixed loan payment.

A borrower may also pay less in interest, but the difference may not be as great as with refinancing. An applicant’s credit score and other financial data points will determine their personal loan interest rate.

There are pros and cons to paying off multiple credit cards with a single short-term loan. Let’s take a look:

Pros of Debt Consolidation

•  You can pay off multiple debts with one loan, which can take the guesswork out of bill paying.

•  The structured nature of a personal loan means you can make equal payments toward the debt at a fixed rate until it is completely eliminated.

•  With most personal loans, you can opt for a fixed interest rate, which ensures payments won’t change over time. (Variable interest rate loans are available, but their lower initial rate can go up as market rates rise.)

Cons of Debt Consolidation

•  The terms of a loan will almost always be based on your credit history and holistic financial picture. That means that not every borrower will qualify for a low interest rate or get approved for a personal loan at all.

•  You may need to pay fees, including personal loan origination fees.

•  You’ll likely need to have good credit in order to qualify for the best interest rate.

Credit Card Refinancing vs Debt Consolidation

To recap, the difference between debt consolidation and credit card refinance is first a matter of goals.

With credit card refinancing — as with other forms of debt refinancing — the aim is to save money by lowering your interest rate. Debt consolidation may or may not save you money on interest, but will certainly simplify bills by replacing multiple credit card obligations with a single monthly payment and a structured payback schedule.

The other difference is that credit card refinancing typically utilizes a balance transfer credit card that has a 0% or low interest rate for a short time. This limits the amount you can transfer to what you can comfortably pay off in a year or so. Debt consolidation utilizes a personal loan, which allows for higher balances to be paid off over a longer payback period.

Which strategy is right for you? That depends on a number of factors, including the amount of debt you have, your current interest rates, and whether you’re able to stick to a structured repayment schedule.

The Takeaway

Credit card refinancing is when a borrower pays off their credit card(s) by moving the balance to another card with a lower interest rate. A popular way to do this is with 0% interest balance transfer credit cards. However, borrowers typically need a high credit score to qualify for these cards. Debt consolidation, on the other hand, is when a borrower simplifies multiple debts by paying them off with a personal loan. Personal loans with a fixed low interest rate and a structured payback schedule are a smart option for consolidating debts.

If you have a relatively small balance that can be paid off in a year or so, refinancing with a balance transfer credit card may be right for you. If you have a larger balance or need more time to fully pay it off, personal loans are available.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

FAQ

Which is better: credit card refinancing or debt consolidation?

There are advantages and drawbacks to both strategies. Credit card refinancing can help you lower your interest rate, which can save you money. Debt consolidation might save you money on interest, but it will definitely simplify bill paying by replacing multiple cards with one monthly bill.

Is refinancing a credit card worth it?

Refinancing a credit card may be worth the effort because it can lower your interest rate, potentially save you money, and make payments more manageable.

Is refinancing the same as consolidation?

Though refinancing and consolidation can both help you manage your debt, they serve different purposes. Refinancing involves moving credit card debt from one card or lender to another, ideally with a lower interest rate. Paying less in interest while you pay off your debt is the main goal of refinancing. When you consolidate, you settle multiple debts with one loan. Simplifying bills into one fixed loan payment is the main reason to consider this strategy.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Pros and Cons of Car Refinancing

This content may include information about products, features, and/or services that SoFi does not provide and is intended to be educational in nature.

Car refinancing is a financial tool that allows you to change the terms of your existing auto loan. It can offer benefits such as lowering your monthly car payment and reducing the interest you pay, but also comes with potential drawbacks like added costs and longer loan terms. Below, we’ll explore what car refinancing entails, its advantages and disadvantages, and alternative options to help you make the best choice for your financial situation.

Key Points

•   If you can qualify for a lower interest rate, car refinancing can save a significant amount of money over the life of the loan.

•   Refinancing can lower your monthly payments if you can get a lower rate or you extend your loan term.

•   If you refinance to a longer loan term, you will likely pay more in interest over the course of the loan.

•   Potential downsides of car refinancing include fees, negative equity, and a temporary impact on your credit score.

•   Alternatives to car refinancing include balance transfer credit cards and personal loans.

What Is a Car Refinance?

Car refinancing involves replacing your current car loan with a new one, typically from a different lender. You use the new loan to pay off the balance of your existing loan, and you begin repaying the new lender based on updated terms.

The main goal of car refinancing is typically to secure better loan terms, such as a lower interest rate, reduced monthly payments, or a shorter loan term. But refinancing also comes with costs and risks, so it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully before you jump in.

Pros of Refinancing a Car Loan

Here’s a look at some of the key benefits of refinancing your current auto loan.

You May Reduce Your Rate

A major pro of refinancing is the potential to secure a lower interest rate. If interest rates have decreased since you took out your original loan or your credit score has improved, refinancing could help you score a better rate, and lower the total interest you pay over the loan’s life. Also, if you took out dealer financing and didn’t shop around for a loan when you bought your car, it’s possible you’re paying a higher rate than necessary. Reducing your interest rate by just two or three percentage points could help you save thousands over the life of your loan.

Recommended: Smarter Ways to Get a Car Loan

You Can Lower Your Monthly Payment

Refinancing can also lower your monthly payments, either by lowering your interest rate, extending the loan term, or both. This can free up funds in your budget for other expenses, and might provide much-needed financial relief. It can also keep you from falling behind on your payments, which can lead to late fees and negatively impact your credit.

Just keep in mind that going with a longer term can also have drawbacks, as it can lead to higher overall costs (more on that below).

You Might Be Able to Access Quick Cash

Some lenders offer cash-out auto refinance loans using your car’s equity (the value of your car minus the amount you owe on it). On top of the new loan that pays off your current one, you receive a lump sum of cash based on your equity. For example, if your car is worth $15,000 and you have $8,000 left on your loan, you might get a refinance loan for $11,000 and take $3,000 in cash. You’ll pay interest on the full amount, and cash-out refis come with some risks. As a result, you generally only want to consider this option for financial emergencies or to pay off high-interest debt.

You Can Change Your Loan Terms

Refinancing may allow you to switch from a variable interest rate to a fixed rate, offering more stability and predictability. It can also give you an opportunity to modify your loan term to better suit your financial circumstances. For example, if your income has increased, or monthly expenses have decreased, since you took out the original loan, you might be able to refinance for a shorter term and pay off your loan earlier than you originally planned.

You Can Remove a Cosigner

If your initial auto loan required a cosigner, refinancing can allow you to remove them once your financial situation improves. This can simplify your financial obligations and release your cosigner from sharing responsibility for your auto loan.

Cons of Refinancing a Car Loan

If you are debating whether to refinance your car loan, you’ll also want to keep these potential downsides in mind.

You Could Pay More in Interest

If you refinance to a longer loan term to lower your monthly payment, you’ll likely end up paying more in interest over the life of the loan. Even scoring a lower interest rate may not make up for the additional months of interest you’ll pay. While the short-term relief may be helpful, it may not be worth the added cost.

Refinancing Comes With Fees

Refinancing is generally not free. Your new lender may charge an application or origination fee, and your current lender may charge a penalty for paying off your loan early. In addition, your state may charge a fee to re-register your car or transfer the title after refinancing. These fees can diminish or eliminate the potential savings of refinancing.

You Could End Up Upside Down

Refinancing to extend the term of your car loan, or cash out equity, could put you in a position of owing more than what your car is worth. This is known as negative equity, or being upside-down on a loan. This can be problematic if you need to sell the car or if it’s totaled in an accident

For example, if you want to trade in or sell your vehicle, you’ll need to cover the difference between what the buyer/dealer pays and what you owe your lender before you can transfer the title. And if your car is totaled, your insurance agency will pay out the value of your vehicle. However, you’ll still owe the full amount of the loan (a higher amount) to your lender.

It Can Impact Your Credit Score

Refinancing triggers a hard credit inquiry, which will appear on your credit reports and can temporarily lower your credit score. While the impact is usually minor and short-lived, it’s important to consider if you’re planning other financial moves, like getting a mortgage or personal loan, in the near future.

Limited Savings for Older Loans

Generally, if you have less than 24 months remaining on your car loan, the potential savings from refinancing may not justify the effort and cost. You typically pay the most interest in the first few years of the loan, which limits the benefit of refinancing toward the end of the repayment period.

Alternatives to Car Refinancing

If refinancing doesn’t align with your financial goals, there are other ways to manage your car-related debt.

Balance-Transfer Credit Card

If your lender allows it, you may be able to transfer your auto debt to a balance-transfer credit card. If you can qualify for a transfer card with a 0% introductory rate and pay off the balance within the promotional timeframe (typically 12 to 21 months), you could save significantly on interest. You might even earn rewards from your new credit card in the process.

However, balance transfers often come with fees, usually 3% to 5% of the transferred amount. And if you fail to pay off the balance before the promotional period ends, the interest rate can jump, potentially costing you more than your original loan. This option generally works best for small loan balances and disciplined borrowers.

Personal Loan

A personal loan can be used for a variety of expenses, including paying off your car loan. These loans often come with fixed interest rates and predictable payment schedules, making them a possible alternative to auto refinancing. Going this route also gives you the option of applying for more than you need to pay off the car loan and use any additional cash you borrow for other expenses.

However, personal loans often have higher interest rates than auto loans, particularly for borrowers with average or below-average credit scores. Before opting for a personal loan, you’ll want to compare rates and calculate whether this approach would save you money compared to your existing loan.

Recommended: Personal Loan Savings Calculator

The Takeaway

Car refinancing can be a smart financial move under the right circumstances, such as securing a lower interest rate or reducing your monthly payments. However, it’s not without potential downsides, including fees, extended loan terms, and the risk of negative equity.

If refinancing doesn’t seem like the best fit for your situation, alternatives like balance transfer credit cards or personal loans may offer other ways to manage your car loan or give you more financial flexibility.

Why consider a SoFi Personal Loan? SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

FAQ

What are the advantages of refinancing your car?

Refinancing your car offers several advantages, such as lowering your interest rate, which reduces the total cost of the loan. It can also decrease your monthly payments by extending the loan term, improving your cash flow. In addition, refinancing provides an opportunity to change your loan terms, like switching from a variable to a fixed interest rate, or removing a cosigner from the loan. However, refinancing also comes with costs and risks, so you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons before you proceed.

When should you refinance a car loan?

You might look into refinancing your car loan when interest rates have dropped, your credit score has improved, or you need to lower your monthly payments. Refinancing can also be a good option if you want to adjust your loan terms for more stability, such as moving from a variable to a fixed interest rate. However, it’s important to consider potential fees and ensure the savings outweigh the costs before you proceed.

How soon can you refinance your car loan after purchase?

You can refinance your car loan as early as a few months after purchase, but it can be a good idea to wait at least six months to a year. This timeframe allows your credit score to recover from any temporary drop (due to the original lender’s hard credit inquiry). This also gives you time to establish consistent payments on the loan and shows potential refinance lenders that you are a responsible borrower. Also, some lenders require six to 12 months of on-time payments to even consider a refinancing application.


Photo credit: Stocksy/Peter Meciar

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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