Senior citizens and scams — elder financial abuse statistics are staggering and it can be hard to know how to protect your elderly parents’ assets. Knowing the scams seniors should be aware of and knowing how to use Elder Care Law to combat them is crucial when it comes to protecting the elderly from scams.
By James L. Cunningham Jr., Esq.
The sad reality is senior citizens are often targets for con or scam artists in order to divest them of their hard-earned money. Seniors with any mental or physical incapacities are even more at risk. According to the NCOA, “While likely under-reported, estimates of elder financial abuse and fraud costs to older Americans range from $2.9 billion to $36.5 annually.” Protecting yourself and your loved ones becomes easier once you understand how this population is targeted as well as how to safely invest and save your money in your golden years.
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How Seniors Can Avoid Scams: What To Look Out For!
Protecting your retirement funds, and the inheritance you have set aside for your children and your legacy is important. Here are some ways you can keep yourself and your money safe from elder fraud.
- Seniors who are lonely or isolated are at a higher risk from scam artists who prey on their need for friendship or connection. Beware of investors who offer unsolicited advice or who try to form bonds while asking personal questions about money or investments.
- Do your research. If an opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is! Do your due diligence and research your investment including the risks involved, the company’s history and the rate of return. Don’t be fooled by a simple website – these can be created quickly and with a low cost to predators. Make sure you are thorough with your research.
- Don’t let anyone prey on your fears. Many seniors have fears regarding medical costs, illness, retirement funds and managing their money long-term. Make sure any investments you make are not based on an impulsive decision or from fear based on a hypothetical future. Your important financial choices should be based on clear numbers, made only after you take the time to carefully consider any decisions before you make them. Having an estate plan in place can also help you feel secure when it comes to medical decisions, allocating money for future needs and protecting your family.
- Be on the lookout! Investments or opportunities that include “off-shore” accounts, insider or special information, ask you to send or wire money, or that need you to invest in a short amount of time can be fraudulent. Take the time to research where the information and investment opportunities come from.
- Take responsibility for your money. Make sure you regularly monitor your accounts and statements, and that you understand where all of your money is going. Identity theft is a real threat and keeping an eye on your accounts or your loved one’s accounts can help raise awareness if any red flags come up.
- Unsolicited emails, phone calls, or letters should be thoroughly investigated before you contact someone about their offer. If you can’t find any information on the company from independent sources or research – chances are it’s a fraud.
Recognize the Signs That Your Elder Has Been a Victim of Fraud: Elder Care Law
Some common scams that can be perpetrated on the elderly are bogus magazine sales, healthcare or charity scams, or posing as a distressed relative in order to receive money. Just as it is important to know how to avoid fraud, it’s equally important to recognize when your loved one may be in trouble. If your elderly loved one suddenly shows possible signs of being a victim of a fraud like a sudden reluctance to discuss financial matters or unusual or unexplained account withdrawals, wire transfers, or other financial changes, it’s possible they are being targeted for fraud and need assistance.
The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) provides materials and resources that can help you identify fraudulent scams as well as report anything suspicious. Our team is well versed in elder law and we can help you create a plan that protects your investments and your loved ones.
What Do We Do as California Estate Planning Attorney Specialists?
The lawyers and staff at CunninghamLegal help people plan for some of the most difficult times in their lives; then we guide them when those times come.
Make an appointment to meet with CunninghamLegal for California Estate Planning and Trust Administration. We have offices throughout California, and we offer in-person, phone, and Zoom appointments. Just call (866) 988-3956 or book an appointment online.
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We look forward to working with you!
Best, Jim
James L. Cunningham Jr., Esq.
Founder, CunninghamLegal
At CunninghamLegal, we guide savvy, caring families in the protection and transfer of multi-generational wealth.
