Support of Elderly Relatives

[jlh636]

Hi Everyone, I have search the threads and I cant find anyone who has posted about this. I am planning on filing Chapter 7 in July and on the forms from my attorney they have a place for support of elderly relatives with chronic medical conditions. Has anyone ever put down a monthly expense for that? If so did the trustee ask for any further documentation then proof you pay it out? Like health care records, etc?

I help my mother out every month with groceries etc, and on the advise from my attorney I am now cutting her a check every month instead of just giving her cash, so we have proof. I just want to make sure Im prepared for questions and any documentation they will ask for.

Thanks!

[Doghouse]

I support my elderly parents too. I added them to my total household for a household of three. They are also on my taxes as I filed as head of household. One parent usually stays with me for several months a year and the other doesn't but I provide most of their financial support.

[Flamingo]

This is an area where you specifically ask your attorney as you may need to provide documentation as to why you have to support them. Do you claim them as dependents on your taxes? Do they live with you? Are they eligible for other benefits through your state that could cover what you are expending for support/medical? Of course if your parents lived with you it makes it much easier so ask your attorney specifically what you may need to provide in the event you are questioned and how you have been able to support them if you are getting ready to file BK and are in dire straights financially yourself.

[veryclose]

Until I saw my attorney, I was under the impression that if the relative was not an IRS-determined dependent I couldn't list my mother's expenses that I pay for, but this is not so.

My situation is slightly different in that I live with her and take care of her. A significant portion of my income is going to her care and I was allowed to list all the expenses I pay for on her behalf and since I do provide so much support, I was permitted to list us as a 2-person household (thus being well under median income for that # household).

Also, my bank statements clearly reflect her care, since they contain payments for things like co-pays, eyeglasses, clothing, food, medical items (all of which I also have receipts for).