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Debt after a separation or divorce

When a relationship ends, joint debts do not split automatically. Here is who owes what, how to protect yourself, and how to untangle your credit file.

Applies to: England, Wales & Northern Ireland

Written by The My Debt Cleared editorial teamLast reviewed 18 October 2026Next review 18 April 2027Jurisdiction England, Wales & Northern IrelandEditorial policy
Joint debts — joint loans, joint overdrafts and joint mortgages — are usually “joint and several”, which means the lender can ask either of you for the whole amount, whatever you have agreed between yourselves. Debts in one person’s sole name stay that person’s debt. Contact lenders about joint accounts early, and ask the credit reference agencies to remove the financial link once you no longer share any accounts.

What to do now

  1. List every joint account and debt with Find My Debts.
  2. Ask the bank to stop new borrowing on joint accounts.
  3. Once nothing is shared, ask each credit reference agency for a notice of disassociation.

Joint and several liability

If your ex stops paying a joint loan, the lender can ask you for all of it, and missed payments go on both credit files. An agreement between you, or even a court order in divorce, does not change what the lender can do — but it may let you claim the money back from your ex.

The mortgage

Keep paying, or talk to the lender straight away if you cannot. Missed mortgage payments affect both of you and can lead to possession action. Mortgage arrears.

Untangling your credit file

If you had a joint account, your credit files are linked, and lenders may look at your ex’s record when you apply. Once all joint accounts are closed, ask Experian, Equifax and TransUnion to add a notice of disassociation.

If your ex controlled the money

If debts were taken out in your name through pressure or without your knowledge, that can be economic abuse. Debt and economic abuse.

You can get free, impartial debt advice

You never have to pay for debt advice. MoneyHelper (government-backed), StepChange, National Debtline and Citizens Advice all give free, confidential advice with no obligation.

Common questions

Am I responsible for my ex's debts?

Only for debts in joint names or that you guaranteed. Debts in your ex's sole name are theirs, though a joint mortgage or joint loan can be claimed from either of you in full.

Can I remove my ex from a joint debt?

Only with the lender's agreement, usually by refinancing into one name. Until then you both remain liable.

How do I break the financial link with my ex?

Close or transfer every joint account, then ask each credit reference agency for a notice of disassociation.

Find My DebtsMortgage arrearsBudget calculator
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