Guide · Money and rent
Co-Signers and Guarantors
A friendly, practical guide to what co-signers and guarantors agree to, the responsibilities they take on, how to ask someone kindly, and alternatives worth considering.
Where to start
- Asked to co sign, or asking someone?
Read every word first. See asking and signing wisely.
- Rent can’t be paid this month?
Reach out before rent is due. See if rent can’t be paid.
- An owner setting a policy?
Work through setting a fair policy.
The short version
A co-signer or guarantor can help someone get a home, and it is a real promise with real responsibility.
Read the lease and guarantee carefully, and ask whether it covers renewals and has a limit.
Residents keep co-signers informed, pay on time and share trouble early.
Owners use clear, fair policies and written guarantees with end dates.
Rules differ from place to place, so we’d gently encourage a quick look at the rules where your home is. If you ever have questions, we would love to help.
Four simple rules
- 1Read every word
Co-signers and guarantors should read the lease and the guarantee carefully before signing.
- 2Understand the promise
They may be responsible for rent and damages if the resident doesn’t pay.
- 3Keep everyone informed
Residents keep their co-signer in the loop, especially if trouble comes up.
- 4Get it in writing
Every term, limit and end date should be clear and written down.
Asking and signing wisely
From the guide’s own checklist. Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this device. These are examples; your home may need others.
All done. Everyone knows what the promise means.
For owners: setting a fair policy
From the guide’s own checklist for owners. Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this device. These are examples; your home may need others.
All done. Your policy is clear and fair for everyone.
If rent can’t be paid
- Reach out to the owner or manager before rent is due, and share a clear plan.
- Tell your co signer what is happening before they hear it from someone else.
- Ask about payment plans and look into rental assistance by calling 211.
- Put any agreement in writing and share it with your co signer.
- Keep copies of every message and agreement.
Talking early is the kindest thing you can do for everyone.
A few things to avoid
- Please don’t pressure anyone into signing.
- Please don’t hide money trouble from your co signer.
- Please don’t assume the guarantee ends automatically when the lease renews.
- Please don’t sign as someone’s co signer without being able to afford the rent if needed.
Guides that go well with this one
How much do you remember?
4 quick questions from this guide, with a one line why for each. Totally optional, no sign in, and your answers are never saved.
Go deeper with The Perfect Rental Owner Checklist Workbook
Simple, step by step checklists you can write in for owners who rent out a home: contractors, insurance, fair pricing, records, showings and more.
Keep the full guide handy
The PDF has everything: everyday habits, what to do when something goes wrong, common myths, helpful resources and plenty of real-world tips. Print it, save it or share it with anyone who could use it.
Download the PDFTake it with you
- Leases, Rent and Money Checklist PackThe Leases, Rent and Money checklists in one pack, fillable on screen or printable.See it in the shop
More guides
This guide shares general information to help you, and is not legal or financial advice. Please read every document carefully and talk with an attorney about your situation. Bunklow does not act as a guarantor.