sueing

Gentlemen:

I am living in Jersey City,New Jersey, have a 22 yr old stepson living with me and my wife who is her mother. At this time he has not finished his college because he is not interested and has failed most of the courses in college which we have paid from our own pocket from the start since he was 18.
So we decided to stop with his college and have him get a job inasmuch as he has never worked in anything.
My concern is that we are planning to buy a house and wonder if he still without a job or with a job without health insurance living with us and he get sick, hospitalized and say I get an exorbitant Medical/hospital bill; Are we responsible for the medical bills and can be sued and loose the house? The only money we have is for the downpayment that we have saved with great difficulty.He was hospitalized for a surgery ($65000.00)a few years back and my job insurance covered him. Please give me some insight.
Thanks.

[Illinois Parent]

Unless he is covered by your insurance ( and he could only be covered at 22 as a full time student); unless he has been declared incompetent; or unless you sign him in as his 'parent', then no, you are not responsible. That doesn't mean that some overzealous billing representative won't try to get you to pay, so be careful of what you sign.

Billing agencies for Doctors and hospitals are notorious for this particular scam, and scam it is. Just because someone is living in your household does not automatically make them a dependant. Turn it around...if you go to the hospital, would he be held responsible for the bill?

[kat1963]

No, he's an adult now, and he's not disabled. You might want to look into a castraphonic policy for him however. I had one when I was in college and my night job didn't offer medical insurance. It pays for major medical expenses only (not routine doctors visits). The monthly cost depends on the deductible and maximum benefit payment. At least this way, heaven forbid he's in an auto accident, cancer or other, he won't have to worry about coverage and/or bankrupcy until he gets his life together. Many companies give free internet quotes. (costs are generally $18.00 & up per month depending on the above and your geographic location).
Just a thought I leave it with you.
KAT

Dear Kat and Illinois Parent:

I appreciate your opnion and thought about my own concerns.
I think, should add, that I should not claim him this year, since I did last year.
Sincerely
Observer