consent? To clarify: I just applied for a charge card, and was denied (even though my credit is apparently good, since I got preapproved for a mortgage recently). They said the reason was bc I "filed for bankruptcy in '98". I did not. THat is, though, the yr of my separation--divorce was final a yr later. So I'm wondering if in fact he (the ex) filed for bankruptcy without my knowing it, though I don't understand why I wouldn't have been notified. How could I find this out? Also, when checking my credit report online before...one company, transunion, wouldn't give a free online report to me. When I called, they said I was "locked out" due to misinformation that they needed to verify. They asked me about student loan info (gave that correctly) then asked me my previous addresses (gave them the 2 i've had), and then they wanted my NY address--which I do not have, but he does..in fact they said "62nd street) which was one address where he lived. They would NOT listen to reason (I'm divorced for 10 yrs now)--they would not verify if there's a current mortgage on that account (they were asking me mortgage info, but my mortgage has been paid off for 6 yrs now) until i disclose his address. Can anyone shed any light or guidance on how I can get to the bottom of this mess?

Cara,
Even if he did file for bankrupcy and included you and he could have if your name was on any of the credit cards BUT he would have still needed your signature. Also a bankrupcy drops off your records after (10) years so I am not sure why you're having a problem. You could have an attorney check into it. But find out what he'd charge first or maybe legal aide could investigate it or at least get your credit report. Or do what most do and legally take back your maiden name, don't use the married name. Hope this helps but if not, many other of our ladies might know more than me and lend a hand.

Or if you belong to the NABBW you can get free advice from their attorney on the site I'm sure.

This is bazaar!!! I'd be curious what the answer is. Sorry to hear you're going through this.

Cara, this is something I'd act on immediately!

Contact the bankruptcy court (either western or eastern district in your state) and inquire whether or not you were involved w/ a bankruptcy given the above-referenced. If so, explain you are not only not an unwilling participant, but unaware of same. Ask what procedure to follow with regard to fraudulant bankruptcy and forgery with criminal intent.

http://www.paeb.uscourts.gov/

http://www.pawb.uscourts.gov/

Best wishes and I hope you get justice.

Mustang, great advice. Thanks for helping.