After being married for 20 years, am I responsible for household bills that are not in my name?
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After being married for 20 years, am I responsible for household bills that are not in my name?
I chose to leave. My spouse did not work until the week I left. I am currently paying half of last months bills. My name is no on any of the household bills except a cable bill.
Asked on August 10, 2015 under Family Law, Texas
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
You are liable for the bills which were incurred during marriage. Creditors will be looking to you for payment if your husband does not pay the bills.
You are NOT liable for your husband's bills incurred prior to marriage.
Texas is a community property state. The bills incurred prior to marriage are your husband's separate property and he is solely liable for those bills.
The bills incurred during marriage are community property and both spouses are liable for those bills.
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
You are liable for the bills which were incurred during marriage. Creditors will be looking to you for payment if your husband does not pay the bills.
You are NOT liable for your husband's bills incurred prior to marriage.
Texas is a community property state. The bills incurred prior to marriage are your husband's separate property and he is solely liable for those bills.
The bills incurred during marriage are community property and both spouses are liable for those bills.
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