Who is a co-signer?

A co-signer is someone who legally agrees to take responsibility for someone else's debt, which is an important aspect of many loan agreements. This role becomes critical particularly when the main borrower may have limited credit history or insufficient income to qualify for the loan independently. The co-signer promises to repay the loan if the borrower fails to do so, thereby providing additional assurance to the lender.

When considering the other options, the first choice, which describes a person who helps apply for a loan, does not encompass the legal obligation that a co-signer has regarding repayment. The third option refers to a borrower who defaults on their contract, which is the opposite of what a co-signer does; a co-signer is there to prevent default by providing an additional layer of creditworthiness. The last option mentions a financial advisor aiding in loan agreements, which is also distinct from the role of a co-signer, as a financial advisor typically provides guidance but does not take on legal responsibility for debt. Thus, understanding the co-signer's role highlights the importance of credit support in securing loans.