 TITLE: How Will Marrying Someone Who Filed Bankruptcy Affect Your Credit? CONTENT: The short answer is no. Marrying someone doesn't merge your credit report with theirs. You'll both maintain credit histories and credit scores independent of one another, and derogatory marks on an account won't affect the other spouse's credit unless that account is held jointly.\nTheir record will not be added to yours or directly impact your credit score—and vice versa. In fact, your marital status will not even show up on your credit report, nor will it affect your credit scores.\nSpouses are also not responsible for individual debts their partners incurred before marriage. If you live in a community property state, however, you will have an equal obligation to repay any debt your spouse incurs while you are married. Even if your name isn't on the account, creditors can pursue your assets in debt collection efforts.\nCommunity property states are: Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. Married couples in Alaska can opt in to community responsibility.\nIf you're concerned about your joint financial prospects, talking to your partner can help. Ask them to explain the context of their bankruptcy. Did they suddenly lose their job or become ill, causing them to fall behind on payments? Or did they get in over their heads due to poor money management? In the latter case, invite them to share what they learned from the experience and how their money habits have changed. This can be a great opportunity to discuss your different approaches to money and develop financial goals and habits for your marriage together. END