The total you are asking to borrow.

Before tax.

Canadian scores run roughly 300–900.

Car loans, cards, other loans, lines of credit.

The person who needs the co-signer.

How this calculator works

This tool turns the factors Canadian lenders weigh most heavily into a single estimate. It is built on the standard amortisation formula for the payment, and on the total-debt-service (TDS) guideline lenders commonly apply — typically that housing and all other debt payments stay at or below about 40% of gross monthly income.

The assumed rate band is a simplifying assumption for illustration only; your actual rate depends on the lender, the product, the term, and both borrowers' full profiles. A co-signer does not erase a weak borrower profile — it adds a second, stronger profile that the lender can also pursue.

Assumptions and limits

This is an educational estimate produced entirely in your browser. It is not an offer of credit, an approval, or financial advice, and it does not use your real credit file. Lenders apply their own policy, pricing, and verification.

Frequently asked questions

What credit score does a co-signer usually need?

There is no single national number. Many lenders look for a co-signer in the roughly 680+ range, but each lender sets its own policy and some accept lower with compensating factors such as income or collateral.

Does the co-signer's debt count against the loan?

Yes. The co-signer's existing debts are included when the lender calculates total debt service, because the co-signer is taking on the new payment too.

Is a high income enough if credit is poor?

Usually not on its own. Income shows capacity to pay; credit history shows willingness. Lenders generally weigh both.

Can a co-signer be declined?

Yes. A co-signer is assessed like any other applicant, and the lender can decline the co-signer — which usually means the application fails.

Sources

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Advertising disclosure: we may be paid a commission when you apply through a partner link on this site. This does not change what you pay. Submitting an enquiry does not guarantee approval. All applications are subject to the lender's own criteria, verification, and credit checks.