Use of a credit card not in your name

[Ann]

I have store credit card that is in my mothers name only. Years ago she lived with me and we would "shop" together with one of those tv shopping stores. She is elderly and that was her "entertainment" because of health reasons she only shopped from home. She has since moved out and is living with another relative. When she moved she told me to keep the card because she really didn't want it anymore and told me to keep the card but to make sure I kept the card's payments current. No problem. I have done just that. Well, now I am planning on filing in December and was wondering how the use of this card that really isn't in my name (I do make those payments from my bank account) will look. We are not talking large ticket items here. Just basically makeup and a few household items that are being charged and paid for. Her limit is 1000 and the balance now is 900. I know you are going to think I'm "cheating" with this but I do have her ok so if I stop paying on all MY cards pay only on her one how will that look? Remember... my name is not on the card! Please advice

[AngelinaCat]

Hi Ann:

You are probably okay with this, but if I were you I would stop using this card and cut it up. Although your name is not on this card, your payments to this creditor are/is(?) on your bank statement.

How much are your payments per month? If they are minimal, then you should be okay. Though many recommend stop paying on cards that you know you will include in BK. However, this one is not yours, although your debt is.

You MUST stop using this card. Part of learning how to deal with the 'New Start" that the BK laws provide, is to STOP using your old habits. Get rid of them. Learn to go 'Cash Only'. It is hard. I know; truly I do and I sympathize.

Good luck to you.