Joint mortgage or loan borrowing
Borrowing? Please read this first
Anyone taking out a loan or mortgage should fully understand what it means and do it of their own free will.
If you’re being pressurised by someone, it might be an abuse called “coerced debt”.
Important
- Feel in danger? Call the emergency services at once
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Signs that you might be coerced
“Coerced debt” is when someone is forced (or coerced) to take on debt, whether alone or jointly with someone. Although as many as 1.6 million people in the UK suffer this abuse per year, it can can be hard to tell if you're one of them because:
- It can be emotional pressure, not threats
- The abuser can be a loved or trusted partner
It sounds like this
- “This has to happen today”
- “If you love me, you’ll do this”
- “If you don’t do it, I’ll leave you”
- “After everything I’ve done for you, you owe me”
- "You're too busy with the kids, I'll handle the money"
- “It’s only paperwork, you won’t pay”
It looks like this
- You’re forced to take out a loan or credit card you don’t want
- You're persuaded to apply for (or borrow more from) a joint mortgage or loan, especially if it's to pay off someone's debts
- You’re asked to transfer someone’s debts into your name
- You're made to borrow to buy a vehicle or similar asset which is registered to another person
Legal help is important
Independent legal advice when borrowing can help you:
- Know your rights
- Decide whether your contract is fair
- Speak your mind in safety
- Confirm your borrowing is voluntary
Getting legal advice doesn't mean something's wrong - it's just to help you make an informed decision.
Debt help is free
StepChange is the UK's largest debt specialist charity and helps 100,000s of people every year.
- It's free and confidential
- It gives you tailored advice for any kind of debt issue
- It creates personalised debt management plans
Safe Space Project
Find support in your area without leaving a trace in your browser history - click on the Safe Spaces logo at the bottom of any TSB page.
Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA)
Specialist advice for anyone experiencing domestic abuse who is in financial difficulty.
Bright Sky app by Hestia
This is a free app that helps you spot the signs of abuse, respond safely, and find local support services.
Chat with us
Use the TSB Mobile Banking App to get help with queries 24/7.
Speak privately to us in branch
All TSB branches are Safe Spaces with private rooms for anyone who needs space to look for help.
You may be able to access our Emergency Flee Fund if you need to escape an abusive relationship.
Talk to us
Talk face to face, over the phone, or on a video call to one of our team who’ll be able to give you some advice on the steps you can take to protect yourself and your money.
