He has early stage Alzheimer's. We are trying to get him Medicaid eligible so he can stay at home and get services. He has nothing in his name but social security and a very small pension. He has been paying on these credit cards and has racked up unbelievable interest on these cards. He is making minimum payments. Am I responsible for his debt? They are not in my name. I don't want Medicaid to be denied because he lied to me about these debts. Thanks
ftcenforcementrulesrulemaking-regulatory-reform-proceedings/fair-debt-collection-practices-act-text
Just read one section at a time. There are some specific practices that have to be followed, and doing so will help you. It's also helpful to know what debt collectors can and can't do.
I assume your name isn't joint with your husband's on the credit card, i.e., you don't share privileges and liability jointly?
When your husband passes, creditors will have first dibs on any money he has left. This includes money that is in joint accounts if I understand correctly. It would be wise to keep your money separate from his. Debt will not count against him if he has to apply for Medicaid, though you may not want to do anything to cancel the debt during this time. Some places will issue a 1099 when they cancel debt, so there can be large tax consequences.
Hope you can see your way through this. What did your husband charge? That will be a huge consideration. If it was groceries, utilities, etc., the debt may be considered household. If it was something just for him it would be his debt.
I would start by contacting a medicaid advisor and ask how this debt can be paid off with out raising red flags.