Tell in-laws re husband's debt?

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-07-2003
Tell in-laws re husband's debt?
2
Tue, 11-21-2006 - 2:26pm
I'd like some opinions. My husband is a loser - he cheated on me while pregnant 3 years ago and supposedly was trying to working things out. I sense he's up to something again but I can't prove it. However, I did recently learn that he has racked up $40k in credit card debt since January. In January he had also received a loan at a low interest rate for $70k from his parents to help him get on his feet after he spent again. I'm ready to file for divorce and wondered if you think I should call my in-laws to tell them about the debt? They will be devastated. My hope is that he will be motivated by them to pay down the $100k in debt (which I am liable for according to state law) before I file for divorce. At this point, I don't think there's any chance of saving the marriage. Any thoughts?
Avatar for cl_mugalug
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Wed, 11-22-2006 - 1:41pm
I think you should tell his parents. They deserve to know because they have helped him out financially, and put their credit on the line for him and if he doesn't pay it, they will come after them. If you decide to divorce him, you need to do one of two things. One put in the divorce decree that he is 100% responsible for this debt, and get yourself off the loan if you are on there. Or two, file bankruptcy, so they can never come after you. Actually, if you aren't on there I don't think they can come after you. You didn't sign anything stating that you are responsible for the debt. I know that when we filed bankruptcy a couple of creditors put things on my credit that were soley Dh's. I disputed it with the one of the Credit Agencies and they removed it. Yes we were married in a community property state, but I don't think they can come after you if you don't sign anything. But I am not positive on that. You will need to talk to an Attorney about that. I am sorry that you are going through this. You deserve better than this man.

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iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Thu, 11-23-2006 - 3:56pm

Hi Chelsel, welcome!

Do you think that telling his parents will help? Do you think that they are going to help him pay down the debt when they find out about it? If not, then telling them may be causing more trouble, possibly.

As far as what you are liable for, I think the best thing to do is to consult with an attorney regarding your rights and what you may or may not be liable for.

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