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What is a co-signer or guarantor?

Short answer

Someone who agrees to pay if you don’t. Landlords may ask for one if you have little credit or income history.

Rules differ by state. This is general information, not legal or professional advice.

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Official sources

HUD: renting help and tenant rightshud.gov
FTC consumer advice: rental listing scamsconsumer.ftc.gov
CFPB: rentingconsumerfinance.gov