If I paid for my stepdaughter’s dorm for college, isshe legally obligated to pay me back?
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If I paid for my stepdaughter’s dorm for college, isshe legally obligated to pay me back?
She verbally mentioned that she would pay me back after she graduates if she can afford to. There is nothing in writing and the only person who heard her say this was her father/my husband.
Asked on February 22, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, Georgia
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
From what you have written about, there is an issue concerning your stepdaughter's verbal agreement to pay you back for her college dorm after she graduates IF she can afford to do so. The issues that I see is when the payment would be made, what does "afford" mean and you having the burden of proving her obligation to pay you back.
Another hurdle for you is that parents many times pay for their children's expenses in college, even stepchildren. I recommend getting some agreement signed by your stepdaughter about payback for the expenses you fronted for her.
From what you have written, I do not see any obligation by the stepdaughter to pay you back that is legally binding.
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