To secure a loan when your husband’s credit score is poor, consider applying individually using your own credit history, exploring secured loans, or seeking a co-signer. Alternatively, apply for joint loans with a spouse or partner who has better credit, or improve your husband’s score over time through credit rebuilding strategies.

When a spouse’s poor credit score complicates loan approval, alternative approaches are necessary. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), approximately 20% of U.S. consumers with credit scores below 600 face higher denial rates for conventional loans. Joint loans, which combine both applicants’ creditworthiness, can mitigate this risk. For example, the Federal Reserve found that joint loan approvals increase by 15-20% when paired with a creditworthy co-borrower. Secured loans, such as those backed by collateral like a car or home equity, also bypass strict credit checks, with approval rates reaching 70-80% for qualified applicants, per Experian data. Co-signers further enhance approval chances by adding their creditworthiness; Experian reports a 30-40% approval boost when a co-signer with a score above 700 is involved. However, co-signers assume equal liability, which may strain relationships. Credit rebuilding strategies, like paying bills on time and reducing debt-to-income ratios, can improve scores by 50-100 points within 6-12 months, according to FICO. This demonstrates that while poor credit poses challenges, strategic alternatives and proactive score improvement significantly increase loan accessibility.