Dealing with Auto Loan after Divorce

Divorce is not only emotionally difficult for you but it is also difficult for your financial condition. How?When a marriage ends, individuals split assets and go separate ways. But, what happens to liabilities such as an auto loan?

In an ideal world, both the individuals assume the responsibility of the debts they created and part ways. Unfortunately, the reality is different. So, take care of debts after a divorce.

The Legal Liability of an Auto Loan

Do not believe that just because the divorce agreement holds your former spouse responsible for the auto loan, he/she will make regular payments. It is plausible that he/she may not make payments.

You must remember that the divorce agreement is separate from your loan contract. Lenders do not give importance to the divorce agreement. Your former spouse may be responsible for the loan in the eyes of a court. But, if you applied for a joint auto loan, lenders will hold you accountable for the loan as well.

How to manage an Auto Loan after Divorce?

It is important to remember that your marriage may be history, but a loan will continue to affect your present and future. Here’s how you can manage your auto loan and save your credit score from plummeting.

1. Get rid of the Loan

After a divorce, the best way to manage an auto loan is to get rid of it. If your former spouse is responsible for making payments, the loan should be in his/her name only.

But, remember that no lender will remove your name from the loan contract because of your changed marital status. So, your former spouse will have to refinance auto loan and complete the loan process individually.

2. Get rid of the Car

If you are worried about refinancing the loan, you can sell the car and pay off the lender. It is possible that an upside down loan situation may force you to pay money to the lender, but it is important to understand that a loss today is better than constant tension forever.

3. Make sure the Lender gets paid

If your former spouse is responsible for the loan and both of you decide against selling the car, you will have to make sure that he/she makes the payments regularly.

If your former spouse doesn’t make payments, contact your attorney. It is possible that you will have to make a couple of payments to avoid any negative impact on your credit score. So, keep aside a part of your income for it.

Taking care of your auto loan might be the last thing on your mind. But, it is important to understand that your marriage is over and not your auto loan. If you don’t manage it effectively, you may ruin your credit score forever.

Is 8 Year Auto Loan Term beneficial for New Car Buyers?

Cars and car loans have become equivalent. If you want to buy a new car, an auto loan has become a complete necessity. With growing need of auto financing and increasing competition in the car loans market, lenders are constantly trying to innovate. Past several years have seen pioneering ideas like no money down auto loans and no co-signer car loans. This year has been no different in terms of innovation because lenders have brought highly unconventional "8 Year Loan Terms".

Auto lenders have become increasingly enthusiastic in offering car loans with unexpectedly longer terms. Experian Automotive March 2013 report divulged information about the average loan terms. The average terms have increased to an all-time high of 65 months. And, now the experts are predicting that 96 month loan term will become popular.

Why are Loan Terms becoming longer?

The report also disclosed the rise in new car loan amount. The average new auto loan amount for Q4 2012 has increased by $272. This shows that car prices are rising steadily which makes it difficult to buy a new car. But, if the new car sales dip, it would affect the automobile industry. So, lenders have started offering longer terms to help Americans fulfill their new car dream.

Also, there is a growing appetite of consumers for car loans. The current economic period is better compared to the recessionary years. Credit borrowers have performed exceptionally well in making regular payments. This allows the lenders to have faith in car buyers.

Benefits of Longer Car Loan Terms

Buying your Dream Car

It is not possible for everyone to buy a new car because of high monthly payments. But, longer terms ensure affordability. This gives you the opportunity of buying any car you want.

Lower Payments

If you opt for shorter term, you have to deal with high payments. But, longer loan terms allow you to lower your monthly payments. This means you will experience considerable ease in making payments. An example will make things clear. If you buy a car for $35,000 at 4% for 4 years, monthly payments will be $790.27. And, if you extend the term to 8 years, payments will be approximately $426.62.

Regular Payments can improve your Credit Score

A 7-8 year loan term is a big responsibility. If you are able to make regular payments, your credit score will definitely increase. It will also show other lenders of your commitment and financial capacity.

Problems with Extended Loan Terms

Pay More towards Interest

Longer loan terms give you flexibility by offering affordable payments. But, you have to pay a price for it. Over the entire term, your total interest amount will be on the higher side. Let's use the same example of $35,000 car at 4% for 4 years and calculate your total payment towards interest. It will be $2,932.81. And, if you opt for 8 year loan term, it will be $5,955.97. This means you will have to pay $3023.16 more.

Higher Chances of Upside Down

A car is a negative asset because its value decreases over the period of time. The depreciation rate of a new car is phenomenal which means there are higher chances of an upside loan. If such a car is stolen or is involved in an accident, the insurance amount won't cover your loan amount. This will be detrimental to your financial condition.

Maintaining your Car

If your car has warranty, your maintenance cost will be low. But, when you opt for 8 year term, your car will not have any warranty in the last few years. This is because most new automobiles come with warranty of 3-5 years.So, your maintenance cost will increase in the future.

Every innovation has its pros and cons. And, its importance is going to be different for every individual. So, think through and decide whether "8 Year Loan Term" is a stunning opportunity for you.

Best of luck in choosing the best auto loan term!!!

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