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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Filial duty laws are sort of a new problem.  Laws have always been on the books in some states but no one used to enforce them.  There is a new trend to start trying so it should be on your radar. Not all states have them so its not an issue for everyone, but if you research the topic you will see some test cases that should give you some concern.

Generally, they are looking to make sure the parent did not dump their assets into a child's account to get out of paying the bill.  If this is not the case, you would typically be ok.  Other things they might look at would be whether you lived with them, received monthly stipends, etc.

We are concerned about this issue with my father-in-law.  He is healthy now, but he is depleting his savings, raiding his 401ks, and has not worked a day in the last 10 years.  Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do to stop him- we have tried.  But we are starting to research what we should do to at least protect our own assets from any potential future liability. This isn't to say that we would not help him when the time comes, but if it happens tomorrow.. we certainly do not have enough liquid assets to provide full coverage.[/quote]

You are being overly dramatic and inappropriate.  For those who have been through this, that is the last thing I was worried about.  At the nursing home, they asked us to sign a form saying we would be financially responsible.  We said no.  Problem solved.  They send bills in both our names, we ignore them.  Simple.  We told them it was inappropriate and they don't care.  You cannot be forced to be financially responsible for a parent.  BTW, being retired means yo don't work.[/quote]

Actually, as pointed out by others, there is a case in PA where a child was held financially responsible- legally.  So it is possible.  Not probable.. but possible.  I don't think its dramatic or inappropriate to consider possible financial burdens you may have to deal with.  It is smart.  I would rather have concern now and find a way to manage that concern that be footed with a massive bill I didn't see coming.

Finally, being retired is very different from being laid off at 50 and deciding not to work for the rest of your life. [/quote]

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