
This section of PALawHelp.org has information and resources about Consumer Issues for Seniors in Pennsylvania.
Click on a resource category listed below to see information related to that category.
New Rights for Buy Now, Pay Later Purchases
This fact sheet from the National Consumer Law Center provides information for consumers on their rights when using “buy now, pay later” options from companies such as Klarna, AfterPay, Sezzle, Affirm, Splitit, and PayPal.
PA Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania. This program provides a rebate ranging from $380 to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older. This webpage from the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue explains who is eligible for the rebate program and how to apply.
Update for Older Adults Facing Repayment of Federally-Backed Student Loans
This practice tip from the National Center for Law & Elder Rights contains a brief summary of the options available for older adults and other borrowers facing repayment of their student loans. Note that some of these options are time-limited and borrowers should act fast.
Your Credit Card Rights
This fact sheet from the National Consumer Law Center provides information on consumer rights relating to the use of credit cards. This includes the types of disputes that might occur with a credit card company and how to resolve those disputes.
How to File a Case in Philadelphia Small Claims Court
Explanation of the Small Claims Court process in Philadelphia from Philadelphia Legal Assistance as outlined in a brochure from the Philadelphia Municipal Court.
Upsolve
If you need to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you may be able to file your bankruptcy through Upsolve. Upsolve is a national non-profit that helps people file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy at no cost. Upsolve is an online program focused on assisting low-income Americans through Chapter 7 bankruptcy at no cost. Read about whether Chapter 7 bankruptcy is right for you!
How to File a Case in Philadelphia Small Claims Court
Explanation of the Small Claims Court process in Philadelphia from Philadelphia Legal Assistance as outlined in a brochure from the Philadelphia Municipal Court.
A Guide for Seniors and Their Families: Issues on Aging
Consumer Legal Information Pamphlet from the Pennsylvania Bar Association [PDF]
A Guide to Legal Issues for Pennsylvania Senior Citizens [PDF]
The handbook from the Pennsylvania Bar Association provides valuable information on legal issues and questions that concern Pennsylvania's senior citizens and the persons and organizations that care for them. (2016-2017) [PDF Format, 83 pages]
Living Trusts
This publication from the Erie County Bar Association outlines what a living trust is, who needs one, advantages and disadvantages of having one, as well as myths and scams involving living trusts. (February 2019)
Trusts
Information from the Erie County Bar Association about using a Trust in personal estate planning and business planning. (August 2018)
New Rights for Buy Now, Pay Later Purchases
This fact sheet from the National Consumer Law Center provides information for consumers on their rights when using “buy now, pay later” options from companies such as Klarna, AfterPay, Sezzle, Affirm, Splitit, and PayPal.
The Home Repair Contract
A Senior Citizen's Guide to Home Repair from the SeniorLAW Center (Philadelphia). [PDF]
Your Credit Card Rights
This fact sheet from the National Consumer Law Center provides information on consumer rights relating to the use of credit cards. This includes the types of disputes that might occur with a credit card company and how to resolve those disputes.
Area Agencies on Aging
Your local Area Agency on Aging will put you into contact with the programs and services you need. Use this finder to locate the specific Area Agency on Aging that covers your county.
Benefits and Rights for Older Pennsylvanians
This booklet from the Pennsylvania Department of Aging provides information about aging services available across the commonwealth. [PDF]
Beware of Living Trust Scams
Consumer Advisory from the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General on scams related to the establishment of living trusts.
Financial Planners or Scammers
Consumer Advisory from the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General about solicitations from so-called experts offering financial and estate planning services.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy is in effect in Pennsylvania Courts. This policy imposes requirements on anyone filing court documents in the trial and appellate courts to safeguard information in the documents they file. The Pennsylvania Courts have released this series of videos that explain the judiciary’s new policy for protecting confidential information and the required steps you must take to protect that information when filing documents in the courts.
PA Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania. This program provides a rebate ranging from $380 to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older. This webpage from the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue explains who is eligible for the rebate program and how to apply.
Preventing elder financial abuse: Guide for family and friends of people living in nursing homes and assisted living communities
This guide from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Office for Older Americans is designed to help family members and friends of people living in nursing homes and assisted living communities learn how to prevent and report elder financial abuse. (November 2021)
Reporting elder financial abuse: Help for family and friends of people living in nursing homes and assisted living communities
This quick reference resource from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is focused on how to report elder financial abuse. This can help you quickly find the right resources in a tough situation. (September 2021)
Rights and Resources for Consumers of All Ages
Reference guide for all consumers regarding how to avoid scams and frauds.
Safety Tips for Seniors
The Office of the Attorney General created this brochure with information for seniors on possible scams, safety concerns and others.
Transportation - PA Department of Aging
Information from the Pennsylvania Department of Aging on transportation issues and support for seniors.
Upsolve
If you need to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you may be able to file your bankruptcy through Upsolve. Upsolve is a national non-profit that helps people file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy at no cost. Upsolve is an online program focused on assisting low-income Americans through Chapter 7 bankruptcy at no cost. Read about whether Chapter 7 bankruptcy is right for you!
How to File a Case in Philadelphia Small Claims Court
Explanation of the Small Claims Court process in Philadelphia from Philadelphia Legal Assistance as outlined in a brochure from the Philadelphia Municipal Court.