First, estate planning — now, we’re moving on to what happens to debt when you die. The question was asked by Ally from Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing in the comments section, and I realized that I couldn’t give her an answer without doing some research. So here’s what I’ve learned.
It Depends on Who’s Listed on the Accounts
If you die and are the only person listed on your credit card accounts, the debt MAY die with you. Creditors can try to collect money from your estate — the executor can allocate funds to paying off your credit card debt. If the estate is insolvent, the creditors will have to write off the loss — no one else is responsible for payment, even though you may get collections agencies hounding you. If you’re receiving calls/getting letters from creditors or collections agencies for a debt you’re not responsible for, you should contact an attorney.
However, if another person (spouse, partner, son or daughter) is a joint account holder, they will be responsible for your debts upon your death. You may be gone, but your debt lives on!
The same goes for mortgages and car loans — whoever is listed will bear the full weight of the debt left when you die. If no one else is on the deed or mortgage, the property can be passed down through inheritance laws, but then that person will be responsible for any mortgages, taxes and/or liens on the property (or car, if it’s passed down).
Community Property States
Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Idaho, Washington, Texas, Wisconsin and Louisiana are all “community property states.” This means if you are married and your spouse dies, you are likely responsible for the debt — even if your name is not on the account/loan — if you both co-signed while married. Any debts accrued prior to your marriage are likely not your responsibility, but again, consult with an attorney to determine how the law works in your particular state. If you were not married, then not only are you not responsible for the debt, but you also hold almost no claim to any property.
“Common law states” recognize partnerships of certain lengths as having the same rights as married couples. But in these states, the surviving spouse or partner is not responsible for certain, solo debts only incurred by the spouse who passed away — for example, the deceased husband owned his own fishing boat that’s wasn’t for family use. But if we’re talking a mortgage or a family car, the surviving spouse can be held liable for the debt.
Proof of Death
It’s morbid, but sometimes, you have to send a copy of the deceased person’s death certificate to provide the debtor is no longer on this earth. Otherwise, the calls and letters from creditors may be incessant. After you provide proof of death, you should be left in peace, and the creditors will likely write off the debt as a loss.
Conclusion
The laws and regulations regarding what happens to debt when you die varies widely from state to state, and I’ve found it hard to offer a concise description of all the possibilities. If you find yourself confused about whether or not you are responsible for your family member or partner’s debts, I highly recommend you consult an attorney or a financial professional who can advise you of your options.
I used to seriously fear my mom passing away and leaving me all her debt!
Interesting post! I feel sorry for the family members that have to pay for all these debt accumulated by the deseasor.
I always thought about this and you pointed it out. Thanks.
*are* not “our”… oops, so excited, I forgot to read that over before posting 🙁
WOW! Nicole, thanks for putting this together! I feel so special. A shout out and answer to my question 🙂 I had a feeling what you included was the deal, but really good to know. You rock! You truly our my financial adviser 🙂
@Ally: Glad to help when I can!
Haha, I’m the only person on my debts and I have no money anyway. I’ve often thought about this topic before but never looked into it. Thanks for writing about it.
@Jeff: I was curious to know how this all worked, also. In my case, hubby and I are both on the car and mortgage loans, but nothing else.
Where the actual cash passes after you die also depends on who’s on the accounts, whether they’re payable on death (POD), whether there’s a will and how the laws work in your state. I smell another post topic…
Yep, that’s another good post idea, and another reason to get out of debt and NOT leave it behind for your family.
Wouldn’t you know, I live in a state that has a “community property” law. I wonder if student loan debt falls into this category? That’s something I need to look into. We both took out student loans years before we were married. Thanks for the information. Now I have to find a secure place to put all my important info!
@Little House: I’m not clear on the community property laws, but I think student loans you got while married may put the burden on your husband (heaven forbid!). I think it’s important to find out how it works.
[…] What Happens to Your Debt When You Die at Rainy Day Saver […]
[…] Worth It? from Fiscal Fizzle. 11 Tips On How To Save On Homeowners Insurance by Wealth Pilgrim. What Happens to Debt When You Die at Rainy-Day Saver. Auto Insurance FAQs from Saving Money Today. Tips for Selling a Home in a Down […]
[…] […]