# What is the difference between a co-signer and a co-borrower?

> A co-borrower is on the title and has ownership rights.

Category: Strategy
Last verified: 2026-02-18
Source: https://ratellow.com/faqs/strategy/what-is-the-difference-between-a-co-signer-and-a-co-borrower

## Answer
A co-borrower is on the title and has ownership rights. A co-signer is generally NOT on title but is still legally responsible for the payments. For multi-generational families, having the parents as 'co-borrowers' is usually preferred for estate and tax planning (Primary Residence Exemption).

## Related guide
- https://ratellow.com/guides/multi-generational-garden-suite

## Sources
- FCAC Guide: Shared Homeownership — https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/industry/laws-regulations/guideline-existing-mortgage-loans-exceptional-circumstances.html#toc3
- CMHC Multi-Unit Policy — https://assets.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/sf/project/cmhc/pdfs/factsheets/new/cmhc-quick-reference.pdf