Does my spouse have to co-sign my mortgage?

Short answer

Generally no, if you apply in your own name and qualify for the amount and terms you requested. The CFPB says a lender usually cannot require a spouse's signature for individual credit in that case. A spouse's signature may be required for joint credit or, where state law requires it, to create a valid lien on the property.

Full explanation

The CFPB says that if you apply alone and already meet the requested amount and terms, the lender generally may not insist that a spouse or anyone else sign. If the mortgage is in your name only and you qualified without a co-signer, a spouse is generally not required to co-sign. That also means a married applicant can usually apply in their own name when they qualify without a co-signer.

If you apply for joint credit, a lender may require the signature of your spouse or of the other person on the application. A lender may also require a spouse or another person to co-sign when state law needs that signature to secure the property as collateral if you fail to repay, including documents that create a valid lien or clear title. This FAQ does not list which states impose that requirement and is not advice about a particular application.

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