<prompt> Human: Getting married in the next year, between the two of us, we have 800 in credit card debt, creditkarma scores in the high 600low 700s, 2 months of emergency but no other savings yet, 4000 still to pay to a family member for a car, and just over 70,000 in student loans which are coming due in the next couple months. Between us we make around 55,000, and are living rent-free with my parents, for at least the next 6 months. What kind of advice can you throw my way? Would it be wise, after marriage, to consolidate the student loans into one payment, is that even possible?Ive read the FAQ, but it tried to encompass every situation and kind of lost its point to me.  <response>: Congress eliminated student loan debt consolidation for married couples in 2006. So thats not an option for federal loans. Some private lenders still permit joint consolidation, but do not do this. Its a horrible idea, since this consolidation is forever even if you get divorced, youll always be on the hook for your partners debts. Very, very bad idea.Consolidation itself is generally unfavorable financially, but joint consolidation doubly so.My advice is to live rent-free for as long as you can, pay the family member back in full first, then pour every cent you have towards your highest interest loan. 