Key Takeaways Co-signing loans and opening joint credit accounts can damage both partners' credit scores if payments are missed. Unmarried couples lack legal protections for shared finances, making cohabitation agreements a smart option. Refinancing joint loans and closing shared accounts can help untangle finances after a breakup. Love may be unconditional, but credit is not. Partners who mingle their money often learn the hard way that being relationship-ready doesn’t necessarily mean you’re fin ...