This guide helps with
- Understand how a joint or two-name account generally works
- Ask the right questions about your share and the other party
- Provide details that clarify the arrangement
- Know what to do if there is a dispute between the parties
- Find free help if you need it
5 min
What's happening
This account is in two names — perhaps a joint account or a shared agreement — and you are being contacted about it. With many joint debts, each person can be responsible for the whole amount, not just half, which can be surprising. It helps to understand the arrangement and ask clear questions before deciding what to do.
This is general information, not legal advice. Joint liability can be complex, so please also seek free, independent advice.
What to do
Ask us, in writing, to confirm the nature of the account — whether it is joint, and how responsibility is shared. If you believe your share is different, or the account should not be in your name at all, say so and provide details. If there is a dispute with the other party, that may need to be resolved separately from the debt itself.
Step by step
- Note the reference and the names on the account.
- Write to us asking how the account is held and how responsibility is shared.
- Explain anything you believe is wrong — for example, that you never agreed to it.
- Provide any agreement or records that clarify the arrangement.
- If there is a dispute with the other party, keep that separate and seek advice.
- Keep dated copies of everything.
What evidence helps
The original agreement showing whose names are on it and how it was set up is the most useful evidence. If you believe your name was added without your knowledge, that may point to a separate issue such as identity concerns. Our Help Centre has more general guidance.
Who to contact
Raise your questions with us through the contact page. For free, independent advice on joint debts, call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. If a dispute cannot be resolved with us, an external scheme such as AFCA may be able to consider it.
Good to know
- With many joint debts, each person can be responsible for the whole amount
- Ask how the account is held and how responsibility is shared
- Provide the original agreement to clarify the arrangement
- A dispute with the other party may need to be resolved separately, with free advice
FAQ
Am I only responsible for half?
Not necessarily. With many joint debts, each person can be liable for the whole amount. Ask how the account is held, and seek free advice about your specific position.
What if my name was added without my agreement?
Say so in writing and provide details. If you never agreed to the account, that may point to a separate issue, such as identity concerns, which has its own steps.
What about a dispute with the other person?
A dispute between the two parties is usually separate from the debt itself. Keep dealing with us on the account, and seek free advice on resolving matters with the other party.
Still stuck? Our team is happy to help you sort it out.