Donald Trump is facing the risk of losing some of his valuable properties in New York due to a staggering civil fraud penalty. He currently owes the state nearly $454 million, with the amount increasing by $87,502 each day until he pays. New York Attorney General Letitia James has stated that she will seek to seize some of Trump’s assets if he is unable to cover the bill resulting from Judge Arthur Engoron’s ruling, which found that Trump had lied about his wealth for years.
Trump’s ability to pay his legal debts is uncertain following recent courtroom losses, including a defamation case where he was ordered to pay $83.3 million. While Trump claims to have about $400 million in cash, most of his net worth is tied up in various properties, investments, and holdings. If he is unable to pay, the state could levy and sell his assets, lien his real property, and garnish any money owed to him.
However, it is unlikely that the state will immediately seize Trump’s assets, as he has indicated that he will appeal the ruling. Trump’s ability to avoid losing assets to seizure will depend on whether he can access enough cash to cover his penalty and interest. The state may seek to seize assets if Trump is unable to pay, but the process may be delayed by his appeals.
Trump’s legal battle over his business practices is expected to continue amid his presidential aspirations and ongoing criminal trials. While Trump has vowed to appeal the civil fraud penalty, he may have to post a bond or pay the full amount to stay enforcement of the judgment during the appeals process. The interest on Trump’s penalty will continue to accrue until he pays, with the total bill expected to increase to over $500 million by August 2025.
In addition to Trump’s civil fraud penalty, his sons, Eric and Donald Jr., as well as Allen Weisselberg, have also been ordered to pay penalties. The total bill for Trump and his co-defendants amounts to $363.9 million in penalties, which will increase with interest. Until they pay, they will continue to accrue interest on the amount owed. Trump’s ability to pay his legal debts and avoid asset seizure will depend on the outcome of his appeals and the resolution of his financial obligations.
