If one partner has bad credit, it can have several potential effects on the other partner, especially if they are applying for a joint mortgage or other type of loan together. Here are a few examples: Interest rates: Lenders will consider the credit scores of both applicants when assessing the risk associated with the loan. If one applicant has bad credit, it could lead to a higher interest rate for the mortgage, even if the other applicant has great credit. Approval odds: While one applicant may have great credit, lenders will still consider the credit score of the other applicant. If the applicant with bad credit has a very low score, it could impact the approval odds for a successful joint mortgage application. Limited mortgage options: If one person has bad credit, it may limit the mortgage options available to you. Some lenders may not be willing to work with borrowers who have poor credit. Deposits: If one applicant has bad credit, the lender may require a larger deposit to offset the risk associated with the loan. Responsibility for the mortgage payments: If the joint mortgage is approved, both applicants will be responsible for repaying the debt. If one applicant defaults on the mortgage, it could impact the credit score of the other applicant and lead to financial strain.  You would create a joint financial association and responsibility to pay the mortgage.