Don’t Let Old Debts Worry You: Why Seniors Shouldn’t Stress About Financial Obligations

by | Nov 11, 2023 | Spousal IRA | 19 comments

Don’t Let Old Debts Worry You: Why Seniors Shouldn’t Stress About Financial Obligations




Are you concerned about old debts? If you’re in #debt as a senior, the law protects you from old debts in many ways that you may not know. Learn how seniors may never have to pay old debts from Attorney Eric Olsen, Executive Director of the HELPS Non-profit Law Firm.

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Time Stamps
0:00 Introduction to seniors and debt
0:50 Why seniors don’t have to worry about debt
1:21 Federal law protects Social Security
1:45 ERISA protects Pensions and Retirement Funds
2:28 Most seniors don’t know their Social Security and Retirement Funds are protected
2:55 How Federal law protects Seniors’ Bank Accounts
5:39 How Federal law protects Seniors from Debt Collectors
8:16 Cease-and-Desist letter to stop Debt Collectors
9:02 How HELPS Non-Profit Law Firm can help Seniors
11:32 How Much HELPS Non-Profit Law Firm charges Seniors
12:21 How Seniors can contact HELPS Non-Profit Law Firm

Many seniors have financial issues, with some facing old debts such as student #debt. But the government protects seniors from certain types of debt. Federal law protects your Social Security payments, pensions, and retirement funds. There are even little-known laws that protect seniors’ bank accounts. Debt collectors may be bothersome, but you can send them packing through various means that don’t require you to pay them. Protected Social Security, pensions, disability and VA benefits can be used for your needs, helping you to find financial peace of mind. The HELPS Non-Profit Law Firm, based in Salem, Oregon, provides ongoing legal representation for purposes of communicating with debt collectors, serving clients in all 50 U.S. states. Once you retain HELPS, debt collectors can no longer call or send letters. Attorney Eric Olsen, Executive Director of the HELPS Non-profit Law Firm, explains why seniors may never have to pay certain debts, and how HELPS can help you even if you don’t retain their services.

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Jeff Hoyt is SeniorLiving.org’s Editor-in-Chief.

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As seniors age, they may find themselves worrying about old debts that have accumulated over the years. Whether it’s from credit cards, mortgages, or medical bills, the burden of debt can be a source of stress and anxiety for many older individuals. However, there are several reasons why seniors shouldn’t worry about old debts and should instead focus on their overall financial well-being.

First and foremost, it’s important for seniors to recognize that they are not alone in carrying old debts. According to a report by the Employee Benefit Research Institute, over half of American households headed by someone aged 55 or older have debt, and the average amount of debt in this age group has increased significantly over the past decade. This means that many seniors are in the same boat and should not feel ashamed or embarrassed about their financial situation.

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Furthermore, it’s essential for seniors to prioritize their current needs and future financial security over old debts. As individuals age, their ability to generate income may decrease, making it more challenging to pay off debt. By focusing on building a comfortable retirement fund and ensuring access to quality healthcare, seniors can better protect themselves from unexpected expenses and market fluctuations.

Another reason why seniors shouldn’t worry about old debts is the impact on their credit score. While it’s important to maintain a good credit score for access to loans and other financial products, the reality is that credit scores become less important as seniors transition into retirement. As long as seniors are able to cover their basic needs and maintain a stable living situation, the effects of old debts on their credit score may be less significant than they think.

Additionally, seniors should consider the statute of limitations on old debts. In many states, there is a limit on how long creditors can legally pursue the collection of old debts. Once this period has passed, the debt becomes unenforceable, and seniors are no longer obligated to pay. It’s important for seniors to understand their rights and consult with a financial advisor or legal professional to determine if any old debts fall under this category.

Finally, seniors shouldn’t let old debts overshadow the positive aspects of their financial situation. By focusing on the assets they have accumulated, such as their home, retirement accounts, and savings, seniors can gain a better perspective on their overall financial health. It’s important for seniors to shift their mindset from worrying about old debts to proactively managing their finances for a comfortable and secure retirement.

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In conclusion, it’s essential for seniors to reframe their mindset around old debts and prioritize their current and future financial well-being. By acknowledging that they are not alone, focusing on their immediate needs, understanding the impact on their credit score, being aware of the statute of limitations, and highlighting their assets, seniors can better manage their financial situation and alleviate unnecessary worry about old debts. It’s never too late for seniors to take control of their financial future and enjoy a fulfilling retirement.

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19 Comments

  1. Ann Gutierrez

    Thank you sir for letting us know our Social Security is protected. I think millions of seniors signed a breath of relief. God Bless you!

  2. valerie armour-danzey

    Would i be able to fax a letter to you supposably from the essex county court house in Newark ,NJ

  3. Gayle Punchios

    Also, added to relocating (Moving) , I also need help with even more expenses since losing caregiver plus Medicaid. I am worried, scared, streeaesd.

  4. Gayle Punchios

    I'M A SINGLE DISABLED SENIOR- – I RECENTLU LOST ALL MEDOCAIF BENEFITS INVLUDING MY 50 HR.WEELLY CAREGIVER AS I CANNOT DO SO MANU DAILY THINGS ALONE ANUMOEE (Physically & Medically), Am at wits end, esp. Now since I must relocate with very lottle jelp on moving. Am moving to approx. 10 miles away. Do you know of any resources that may help me un any of the above mentioned s? God Bless

  5. valerie armour-danzey

    I am 75yrs old can a bill collector garnish your anchor benefit check in nj. especially if it is in my name and my husbands. name

  6. Jim Fromearth

    What about disabled folks
    collecting SS?

  7. Dena Robins

    What about child support?

  8. STARFIRESOLAR

    Yeah RIght! If the government wants your money they will take it. Period.

  9. Dukes

    There is a lien on my house from a company that brought my debt from another company. I was told that I didn’t have to appear in court and because I didn’t, the court placed the lien because I didn’t show up. What should I do?

  10. Sylvia Dizon

    After a judgment the credior will freeze your account and make you go through all kinds of stress you have to go to court to undo that with the bank and it will cost money and take weeks to get this resolved .

  11. Kathryn Irby

    Thanks for the uploads!!

  12. Deborah Rivers

    How can I even rent an apartment now since my credit is ruined. It was 831 credit report now due to abuse it’s almost 600. No one will rent to me. So now what???????

  13. gina daisy

    For seniors. How about student loans??

  14. Ramona Rain

    If IRA is Proctected, How can the white house. Take Money from US then ?

  15. Marcus Fred

    After a terrible 2022, shell-shocked financial backers have a lot to think about and losses to recover from. An expansion report and a wealth of other data did little to alter assumptions that the Central bank would likely keep raising interest rates regardless of whether the economy slows down. This implies that portfolios will experience more losses during the first quarter of 2023. I'm currently at a crossroads deciding whether to exchange my $250k security/stock portfolio; how might the continuous market volatility work to my advantage?

  16. MAJESTY1962

    The Borrower is the slave to the lender. No matter how you sugar coat it. Seniors who default on their obligations shall be slaves for the rest of their lives. It’s too bad!

  17. Pete Montoya

    What about va pay in your bank account?

  18. SeinfeldFan

    Wao… could this be, actually TRUE? 🙂 I don't believe anything on the Internet especially when they offer me services for NOTHING!…

    BUT, after watching a few videos, I am beginning to believe it. Yes I am a SOLO senior, and Yes I am Happy, because I found the way to live with the means of my 'low income'. I declared bankruptcy about 5 years ago, and as you correctly said, that gave me LIFE again, not having to worry about it. Now my problem finding a low income living. Well, I basically want to say THANK YOU for giving me hope that some people actually care for people like us..

  19. Bobby Jordan

    I understand that my social security is protected but what about military retirement and VA disability benefits? Are they protected the same way?

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