If I got a credit card at 17 and stop paying on it, what canI do?
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If I got a credit card at 17 and stop paying on it, what canI do?
They are coming after me.
Asked on July 7, 2011 under Bankruptcy Law, Illinois
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Ok so the general rule is that 17 year olds do not have what is called the capacity to contract, meaning that as a minor they are considered to be legally incompetent to enter in to a binding contract. But, if the minor "ratifies" the contract when they have reached majority, meaning that they reaffirm the terms of the contract when they are over 18, then the contract can be found to be enforceable against them. You have not said how old you are now and if you have continued to use the credit card when you turned 18. They are going to continue to hound you unless you deal with it head on. Please speak with an adult that you feel comfortable telling this to and see if they can help you. You need to contact the creditor and speak with them about a payment plan. Cut the credit card off. This is a lesson that you have learned early. Good luck to you.
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