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You're the guarantor and being chased — what now

If the main borrower stops paying, the lender can pursue you for the whole balance. You still have options.

Guarantor Loans3 min readReviewed July 2026

A guarantor is legally responsible for the loan if the borrower can't pay. The lender should attempt reasonable recovery from the borrower first, but that isn't a legal barrier to contacting you.

Ask for a full statement, a copy of the credit agreement and a breakdown of missed payments. Errors, poor affordability checks or aggressive collection can all be grounds to complain.

Your own debt help options — including formal solutions — remain available even where you are on the loan as guarantor.

General information, not personalised adviceThis article is written to inform. It isn't personalised debt or legal advice, and Debt Compass is not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. A team member can talk you through the options and point you to a free debt help service or authorised insolvency practitioner before you decide on anything.