Ask Terry Questions Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy

By Terry Savage on February 16, 2018 | Credit/Debt

My father in law is 73 and his only income is SSDI. Would he be better off filing for bankruptcy, or for us to handle it on our own. (He, my Wife and Myself). I handle his calls and appointments so I'm the one answering when the creditors call. I can handle the phone calls, and we know his SSDI can't be touched by the creditors. He lives in an older moblie home so he has no equity. We're wondering if we can handle it without legal representation? Thank you for you time.

Terry Says

Sadly, I think bankruptcy might be the only answer to this situation.  But just to make sure, please call 800-388-2227.  That will connect you to the nearest local office of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.  They are free, or very inexpensive -- and you can trust them 100%.   They know the laws of your state, and any resources that might be available to seniors.  And, if they do agree that bankruptcy is the best way out, they will refer you to an attorney you can trust -- instead of one of those midnight TV commercials!  It's sad to see seniors unable to cope with rising medical and other costs.  Before calling get all your facts together -- the amount of debt, and to whom it is owed.  And double check, because I think he is likely receiving traditional Social Security at his age -- not SSDI.

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