by Attorney Michael Eramo

In my consumer bankruptcy practice, my office has seen an alarming number of senior citizens lately who are attempting to make payments on large credit card debts from a very meager cash flow, usually from just their monthly Social Security income. These seniors want desperately to pay their debts. They are burdened. At a time in life when the last thing they should be concerned with is money, many face harassment from collections agencies and even law suits. Often, it is my legal opinion, that it is neither possible to pay the creditors, nor wise. The sacrifices to do so is just too great.

Unfortunately, many of our seniors are enduring the continuing stress and often cut back on food, prescriptions, medical treatment all in an effort honor their beliefs and long held values about repaying their debts.

The reality is that paying overwhelming credit card debts, with sky rocketing interest rates and late fees and penalties, is simply not feasible.

Debt ridden seniors frequently are judgment proof: everything they have is protected by an exemption such that even a creditor with a judgment can't take anything from them. Nonetheless, the threats of Court actions, creditor calls, and the worry and stress that overwhelming debt causes, is unnecessary and unhealthy.

I urge families and other care givers and professionals supporting the seniors to be alert for evidence of unmanageable consumer debt, and encourage the seniors to get legal advice on whether bankruptcy is appropriate for them.

Seniors are entitled to the protections of the Federal Bankruptcy Court and the Fresh Start provided by the Federal Courts. All clients and prospective clients who contact our office are treated with kindness, curtosey and respect. Should you or a senior citizen have questions, please, call our office.