We are dealing with the aftermath of my MIL's sudden death last month. Her credit card bill just came in and there is a small amount due, between $60 and $80. We can certainly pay it, it's not a problem. We've also been notified, however, that the hospital wants nearly $35,000 for their care of her, billed to her "estate." The thing is, she left no estate. She had only a small checking account assigned to revert to my husband at her death. So here's my question. I know we are not legally responsible for either of these bills. But if we were to pay the credit card one, strictly as a courtesy, would that open us up to being responsible for the hospital bill? Would we then be saying, in effect, that we *are* assuming her debts? Thanks.
Nothing else going to come creeping out of the woodwork is there? - but in any case, not your problem, no.
Did she have any medical coverage on her auto insurance? This would cover some depending on policy.
I would not send a personal check, i would send a money order from the post office if you are going to pay the cc. Use only her information and I would put in the memo that she is deceased payment in full.
May God grant your family grieving mercies and peace during this time of readjustment.
Have you received the Medicare statement and the supplimental statement? I would just be curious why such a big balance.
But when all is said and done, if there is no money than the bill can't get paid. You are not responsible for it. I would pay the credit card and contact them to close the account.
I was thinking the same thing as JoAnn, why hasn't Medicare and the supplemental insurance not paid the bill? But then again, your mother-in-law just past last month so it may take time for Medicaid/supplemental to pay.
I know I had to set up a bank account in the Estate of Freflyer's Dad, to use to pay any of his bills. I did not use any of my personal checks. Medicare/supplement covered the vast majority of his stay in the hospital.
I would vote for paying the credit card. And I fully understand why you feel you would want to pay the credit card, out of courtesy. I would have done the same thing.
Heartfelt condolences for your loss.
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