3 replies to this topic

[cs_bluecat]

if there is no will, estate, or money to pay bills in their name only, do I have to pay? I am in Tennessee.

[FindLaw_AHK]

You may want to visit the Estate Planning Center and read Debts After Death as a good resource to learn more about this subject matter.

[Fallen]

If the bill is in the person's name alone, no, there's no reason to believe you're legally obligated to pay the debt. (Please note that even if this person only had clothes and other small items of personal property, that counts as an "estate"; however, no average creditor would go to the trouble of trying to pursue liquidation of such things since funeral/final and estate admin expenses would take priority over other debts.

[pg1067]

if there is no will, estate, or money to pay bills in their name only, do I have to pay?

I assume you're asking whether you are personally liable for bills in your deceased spouse's name. If so, the answer depends on the nature of each bill. I suggest you consult with a local estate/probate lawyer about this.