Financial abuse is using the elder’s money or assets contrary to the elder’s wishes, needs, or best interests - or for the abuser’s personal gain.

• Taking money or other items from the home, bank or security accounts.

• Selling or transferring the elder’s property.

• Failing to provide agreed upon services to the elder, such as caregiving, home or vehicle repair, or financial management.

• Using the elder’s credit card for unauthorized purchases.

• Using the elder’s name or credit to open new accounts.

• Misusing the elder’s power of attorney.

• Refusing to return money or assets borrowed from the elder, as agreed upon or requested.

• Creating or changing living trusts for the benefit of the abuse.

• Changing the elder’s will, trusts, or other inheritance so the abuser benefits.

• El Cerrito Police Department:  
  (510) 237-3233

• Elder Angels, Inc.:   (415) 284-1160

• Contra Costa County Aging and Adult Services   (925) 335-8700

• Adult Protective Services Toll Free number   1-877-839-4347, 24-hour line.

Detective Gilbert Tang
(510) 215-4420
E-Mail: gtang@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us

• Family members

• Caretakers, paid or volunteer

• Strangers, met in public, or over the phone, or those who come to the door

• Professionals hired by the elder (accountants, bankers, lawyers, doctors)

What is "Undue Influence"?

Talking to your elders about avoiding these common scams:

The warning signs of financial exploitation: