Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Illinois

Entrance to a nursing home and a Credit Card Balance

My mother entered a nursing home and is on public aid. She has a credit card balance of $1700.00. She now has no monies to pay this bill nor does her family. How do I, as her son and medical power of attorney, approach her credit card company to forget this debt and/or what legalities are involved for payment.


Asked on 2/15/02, 10:33 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Jay Pollak The Pollak Law Firm, LLC

Re: Entrance to a nursing home and a Credit Card Balance

Your medical power of attorney does not give you authority to settle her debts so don't rely in it. But regardless call the credit card company tell them who you are and why you are calling. Make sure they know they won't get paid regardless of the pressure they put on you or your mother and suggest they simply write off the debt. You have no obligation to pay her credit card debt. Make sure they know your mother is in a nursing home and has no money.

Read more
Answered on 2/16/02, 12:14 am
Kenneth J. Ashman Ashman Law Offices, LLC

Re: Entrance to a nursing home and a Credit Card Balance

I agree with the advice of Mr. Pollak and add only the question of what would be the consequences if the credit card company pursued collection and ultimately a lawsuit? A judgment against a judgment-proof individual?

-- Kenneth J. Ashman; [email protected]; www.lawyers.com/alo

Read more
Answered on 2/16/02, 12:33 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Credit, Debt and Collections Law questions and answers in Illinois