Am I responsible for my deceased husbands bills in SC
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Am I responsible for my deceased husbands bills in SC
We had been living seperately for the past 4 years when I received a call from a friend that he was in the hospital. He died less than a week later. The house is in both our names, though I have been the only one paying on it from day 1. He had no insurance, only debts. He owes approx 25,000 in credit card bills that he incurred while we were seperated. Can the house be taken from me? Will I be responsible for all those bills.
Asked on May 13, 2009 under Estate Planning, South Carolina
Answers:
J.V., Member, New Jersey Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
Although I do not know the specifics of your situation unfortunately when a persons spouse dies they are responsible for their bills. Even though you were separated it does not matter as far as paying bills is concerned. You seem ok with the house bills and will continue to be responsible for them all. The house cannot be taken from you as long as you continue paying your bills.
As far as the credit card bills I do not know your states specific laws but usually a person is only responsible for debts in their name as signer co-signor, guarantor, etc. if they are his personal cards in his name only you may not be liable but I would double check with a local attorney. I assume he had a will so speak to the estates attorney before making any decisions.
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