I’m 29 and recently lost my dad. My mom passed away from cancer five years ago, and now I’m left figuring out my dad’s finances. He had two credit cards with a combined $20,000 in debt. He also owned a house (with about a third of the mortgage left), a car, and a camping trailer.
He didn’t have a will, but he started the process after my mom passed and never finished it. I’m overwhelmed trying to understand what happens now. Will I be responsible for his credit card debt? Will the debt just keep growing with interest?
I’ve spoken briefly to a lawyer but want to understand more before putting all my trust in them.
If anyone has been through something similar or has advice, I’d really appreciate it. Hug your parents while you can.
You’ll need a lawyer to help sort everything out. Don’t pay anything yet—wait until a lawyer explains exactly what you’re responsible for (likely nothing directly). Sorry for your loss.
Asher said:
You’ll need a lawyer to help sort everything out. Don’t pay anything yet—wait until a lawyer explains exactly what you’re responsible for (likely nothing directly). Sorry for your loss.
What if someone can’t afford a lawyer? Are there alternatives?
@Ellis
If there are assets, like the house or trailer, they can be sold to cover the debts. The creditors will be notified, and there will be a court hearing to sort out who gets what from the estate. If you’re worried about losing personal items, take them from the house now before this process starts.
But don’t worry, you’re not personally responsible for paying any of his debts. Take your time making decisions. Be kind to yourself.
You won’t have to pay the debt yourself, but the estate will. That means the house, car, and other assets could be sold to cover what’s owed. Definitely consult a lawyer. Sorry for your loss.
When my mom passed, none of her creditors chased us. My siblings and I even used her card to pay for her funeral (not my proudest moment). But nobody came after us for her debt. I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Sending love your way.
You’ll probably need to talk to an estate lawyer. The debts, including the credit cards, will be paid out of his estate. If you want to keep the house, you’ll likely need to keep paying the mortgage and cover the credit card debt.
@Oren
When my mom passed, I called her creditors to let them know. One of them asked if I wanted to pay her balance to keep her name in good standing. I laughed and said, ‘She’s gone, her name will always be in good standing with me.’ Don’t let guilt make you pay something you don’t legally have to.
The debts will be paid from his estate. If there’s no will, his assets will likely be sold to settle the debts. You’ll need several copies of his death certificate to send to creditors. A probate lawyer can guide you through this process.
When my dad passed, I called his credit card companies to let them know. Only one had a balance, and they just closed the account. You’re not responsible for the debt, but you may need to send them a death certificate.
You’re not personally responsible for his debts (unless you co-signed something). His estate will cover what it can, and creditors will have to write off the rest.
When my mom passed, I contacted her credit card companies. They closed the accounts, and we didn’t have to pay anything. Don’t share too much information—just notify them of his death.
