Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
A hearing impaired individual owed more than $15,000 as a result of identity theft. The crime was committed by those most trusted and closest to the individual.  

Response:
ISU Extension Family Resource Management Field Specialist was called by Community Action to sort through two years of bills, collection notices, judgment notices and miscellaneous mail for the deaf individual with limited reading skills. Records were sorted and organized, a budget created and creditors contacted. Legal Aid assisted  with the legal issues of back taxes, forged signatures and stolen social security number.

Impact:
The estimated $7,000 of back Iowa Taxes were reduced to a manageable $500 for this individual with a meager income that barely covered living expenses. Creditors holding contracts secured with stolen identification information, received letters of explanation and details of the judgment proof status of the deaf individual.

Additional Team Members/Community Partners:
Community Action, Crystal Pueggel, 1190 Briarstone Dr. Suite #2, Mason City, IA 50401 641-423-7766
Legal Aid, Diane Wilson, 600 1st Street NW. Suite 103, Mason City, Ia 50401, 641-423-4651

Contact:
Brenda Schmitt
Cerro Gordo County Extension
2023 S Federal Ave
Mason City, IA50401
641-423-0844
schmitt@iastate.edu