If your sister puts your name down as the second card holder on her credit card and she dies, are you obligated to pay?
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If your sister puts your name down as the second card holder on her credit card and she dies, are you obligated to pay?
My sister died about a month ago and I’m trying to figure out if I am responsible for her debt. My mom also has her name on another one of my sisters credit cards.
Asked on August 9, 2010 under Bankruptcy Law, Georgia
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
It depends. If the account is still purely in your sister's name and you are merely an authorized user, then normally you would not be liable for the charges on the account--though in certain circumstances, if the credit card issuer can show that you committed fraud, etc. in relation to the account or specific charges, they may be able to hold you liable.
However, if the account is a joint account or otherwise in both your names, then you would be liable. So if you have any control over the account, or the ability to contact the credit card issuer and obtain information directly from them, you may be on the account and therefore liable.
You need to reference the credit card agreements that your sister and also you signed; you sister cannot make you liable for something without your agreement or consent, so look at anything you signed. Good luck.
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