When a person dies, their debts don’t just go away. Instead, creditors can turn to the estate of the decedent to collect the debts. Sometimes, there isn’t enough to collect everything they’re due. When that happens, the unscrupulous debt collectors may try to turn to the loved ones of that individual to try to collect what’s due.
There are very limited times when loved ones are responsible for the debts of someone who dies. These situations include if the person was a co-signed for the account or if they were a joint account holder. When those circumstances aren’t present, the person isn’t liable for the debts.
How should someone handle creditor attempts?
Creditor attempts after a loved one dies should be handled carefully. Giving out personal or financial information to them if they’re trying to collect a debt that you don’t owe is dangerous. Instead, you should direct them to the estate administrator who is handling the decedent’s affairs. That’s the only way they can collect what they’re due.
Sometimes, creditors don’t accept it when someone refuses to pay the debts of a deceased person. They may try to collect repeatedly, which can eventually equate to harassment. This can occur with repeated contact or attempts at inappropriate times.
At that point, the person who’s being contacted may opt to pursue legal action. This is a serious matter, so it may be beneficial for the individual to have someone on their side who can assist them with taking the necessary steps to hold the creditor accountable for their illegal and unscrupulous collection attempts.