 TITLE: What Are the Financial Perks of Getting Married? CONTENT: Enjoy Increased Borrowing Power\n-------------------------------\nGetting married and combining your bank accounts won't wed individual debts you brought into the marriage—those stay separate in your own names (and on your own credit reports). But when it comes to new debt you might want to take on as a couple, lenders consider both married partners' credit in their loan applications. If one spouse has excellent credit, it can improve borrowing opportunities for the couple, even if the other has a less-than-perfect history. The legal ties of marriage don't directly affect your individual credit scores or reports, however, no matter how much debt either partner has or doesn't have.\nDebts you acquire together after marrying—whether by cosigning for each other or opening a new account together—will belong to both of you. If you live in a community property state, both spouses are responsible for debt taken on while married, no matter which partner borrowed it. The community property states are Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin; Alaska gives the option of community property.\nWhile any debt either partner enters the marriage with remains the responsibility of the borrower, your financial history can affect your financial future as a couple. Be sure to check in regularly to avoid any financial surprises down the road. END