Co-signing a business loan? . . .

If you're a principal in a business (i.e., shareholder, LLC member, etc.) most lenders will ask you to co-sign or guarantee the company's loan. This if often a non-negotiable point. That's to be expected. But before signing, check the wording carefully. As a principal you don't want to be on the hook if you leave the company. You could be liable with no control of the company finances. You should have some options. In addition, many loan agreements restrict the transfer of a guarantor's interest in the company. That's a particular problem if the business is an S corporation, LLC, or partnership where the income and losses are passed through to the owners. Read the fine print and get good legal advice before signing.