Elder Financial Abuse: Warning Signs and What to Do

Elder financial abuse is the misuse of an older person's money or property. It is often committed by someone the person knows, such as a family member, caregiver or friend.

Warning signs

• Unusual withdrawals, transfers or cheques.
• New names added to bank accounts or property.
• A new will or power of attorney the person doesn't seem to understand.
• Unpaid bills when there should be enough money.
• A caregiver who isolates the person or controls their mail and phone.

Powers of attorney for property

Under Ontario's Substitute Decisions Act, an attorney for property must act honestly and in the person's best interests, keep accounts, and not mix the person's money with their own.

Joint accounts

Adding someone to a bank account doesn't always mean they inherit it. Courts look at what the person intended.

Where to get help

• Police: if you think a crime has been committed.
• Seniors Safety Line: 1-866-299-1011, Ontario's free, confidential 24/7 helpline.
• Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee: if someone who can't make decisions is at risk of serious harm.

Prevention

Choose attorneys carefully, ask for regular accounts, and keep important documents safe.

Sources

• Substitute Decisions Act, 1992
• Ontario: elder abuse
• Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee

Read next: Small Estates in Ontario: The Small Estate Certificate

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: A senior couple reviewing documents together · A family walking on a wooden bridge.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.