View Full Version : My mom's hospital bill
amida
Jul 25, 2006, 07:52 AM
My mom was sent to a hospital because of an accident and she died. I now get a hospital bill in her name. My friend told me that I am not responsible for it. But I don't know if it's true or not. I couldn't find anything online about this. Can someone point me to the right direction? Thanks.
Superior
Jul 25, 2006, 09:34 AM
When my grandfather passed, I was not obligated to pay his debt. When creditors called I advised he was deceased and sent a legal document (death certificate) if asked and that was the end of it.
Don't let anyone intimidate you into thinking you have to pay for these debts as long as you did not co-sign any documentation.
You will only be responsible if you co-signed. However, the estate is responsible so if you mom had anything it will likely be claimed by the creditors.
You should see a lawyer to set up an estate because if you screw up and get some money from the estate then you would be responsible to your mom's creditors.
http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/CollegeandFamily/Caringforparents/P37500.asp
http://www.elderlawanswers.com/resources/article.asp?id=1194§ion=4&state=
CaptainForest
Jul 25, 2006, 01:14 PM
I agree with Superior.
YOU are NOT responsible for anyone's bills but your own.
However, if your mother has an estate, that money must be used to pay her bills FIRST, before it gets divided amongst you and your possible siblings.
zeke
Aug 1, 2006, 07:22 PM
I also agree with Superior.
Unless you signed a form saying you will pay the bill, you are not responsible.
Just to be on the safe side you may want to double check with a lawyer
ScottGem
Aug 2, 2006, 06:30 AM
One other point, if the death was a result of an accident, there may be insurance to cover the bills. Without knowing more details about the accident, its hard to advise further.