It was supposed to be repaid in two weeks, going on two years.
I have proof by text him saying he would pay me back.
He gets Social Security and works under the table.
I know this because I broke into his phone with the password.
LOL, he doesnt know I did this.
Plus, he still owes me a lot of child support.
I think I even have pictures of him working standing next to the sign with the phone number.
I was going to report it to Social Security, but they probably wont do anything.
I really need that money.
I have to pay taxes on it and pay it back.
I just found out.
I dont know what to do.
I message him on Facebook messenger, and then he blocks me.
-S.
Dear S.,
You could sue your ex in small claims court.
You may also be able to use the texts as evidence.
But if you win a judgment, its up to you to collect on it.
Thats typically a lot tougher than actually winning the case.
Sure, I want people to get the money theyre owed.
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But your former boyfriend is working under the table, so this could prove difficult.
Social Security benefits cant be garnished over a small claims judgment.
I suppose you could report your ex to Social Security if hes illegally working and collecting benefits.
But be clear about your motivation here.
Would you be doing so for revenge or because you think it would help you get your money?
It sounds like you have a pressing need for this $500.
Try separating your feelings about your ex from your need for a second.
7 Ways to Make Money if You Hate People
Do you avoid people too?
Enough small talk.Here are some waysto earn extra cash, without all of the social stuff.
Or could you work extra shifts to come up with the money.
Doing so doesnt mean you cant also sue your ex, of course.
But I think these are more realistic options for getting $500 in a timely manner.
Im not sure who you gotta repay here.
One thing that may be worth pursuing is the child support your ex-boyfriend still owes you.
Many states have no statute of limitations on collecting past-due child support.
Consider talking to an attorney who specializes in family law or your states child support enforcement agency.
Whatever you choose, keep your own actions above board.
That means no more breaking into your exs phone or any other equipment.
Robin Hartill is a certified financial planner and a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
Send your tricky money questions to[email protected]or chat with her inThe Penny Hoarder Community.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
