Hello - My Aunt Shirley passed away last month, and I (her niece) carried out her final wishes and am sorting out how to handle the final expenses and payment of debts remaining. There were no funds left after the long-term confinement due to Alzheimer's Disease, so my question is in regards XXXXX XXXXX remaining doctors bills and one credit card balance of $800. Since I am handling here affairs and had her Power of Attorney while she was living, am I obligated to pay these expenses from my funds?? There is no surviving spouse or child, and there was no estate to administer. If there is no obligation to pay from my personal funds, how do I handle the notification of these debt holders? If I make a single payment to hold off late payment fees (in case I am liable), does that lock me into an otherwise unnecessary legal agreement? Thank you for your help.
Optional Information: Country relating to Question: United States State (if USA): Tennessee Already Tried: Have just been trying to keep my head above water. I have been told by a friend that I am not legally responsible for payment of her debts, but need to be very sure - especially if by making a payment from my limited funds in order to stave off late charges will transfer the debt to me. Thank you!
Thank you for posting your question to JA/Pearl. Legal questions often take time for research or I may be offline so please be patient, I will reply.I am glad to confirm that what you have been told is correct, you are not in any way liable for her remaining bills. You would simply send the creditor a copy of the death certificate and notify them that there is no estate. To prevent harassing phone calls you may want to temporarily use a post office box and not give them your full name or either have your phone unlisted.
Experience: Actively practicing trial attorney
Thank you very, very much!!!!