What to do if a joint account holder withdraws all of the money from the account without the other account holder’s knowledge?
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What to do if a joint account holder withdraws all of the money from the account without the other account holder’s knowledge?
Recently my ex-girlfriend and I broke up. I was completely committed and added her to my bank account. Every month on the 19th I receive an annuity ($1,700) from a settlement when I was a kid, last month my ex-girlfriend beat me to the bank and took my annuity from the account without my permission. I use that Annuity for my rent and without that I will not be able to pay my rent. Is there any action I can take to recover my money? I opened the account alone and added her later, I have the court settlement paperwork, deposite slips reflecting the monthly annuity and a copy of her withdrawal slip the bank gave me when I asked who withdrew my money.
Asked on December 4, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, California
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Under the laws of all states in this country if one is a joint owner on an account that person is presumed to own its entirety. Your recourse is to make a demand upon your "ex" for the return of what she took that is yours and if not returned, your recourse is small claims court depending upon the amount or consulting with an attorney about what to do.
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