Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
“My mother is 86 years old and lives with me in my home. Am I responsible for any of her debts such as credit cards or line of credit at her bank? The only thing I am on is her checking account with her.”
Question: Generally speaking, unless you have specifically agreed to assume her debts, or have assumed some more specific form of guardianship or other decision-making responsibility for her, you will likely not be held responsible for her debts. Creditors may be able to go after assets that you hold jointly with her, such as the checking account, and if it came down to a legal battle or a bankruptcy, the court may allow them to investigate your finances to see if she had transferred any money to you to avoid being attached. If there is a chance that your mother is facing any kind of bankruptcy situation, you should help her locate a bankruptcy attorney as soon as possible; the longer you wait, the fewer options she may have for avoiding legal difficulties.
