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Am I responsible for my deceased husband's medical bills?

Am I responsible for my deceased husband's medical bills?

Q: Do unpaid medical bills go away?

Unpaid medical bills do not automatically go away. They can remain on your credit report for up to seven years and may accrue interest or late fees. While some debts may be forgiven under certain circumstances, it's essential to address unpaid bills proactively to avoid negative financial impacts.

Q: Can a doctor bill you 3 years later?

A doctor can attempt to bill you for services rendered three years ago, but whether they can legally collect that debt depends on the statute of limitations in your state. If the time limit has passed, you may not be legally obligated to pay. It's advisable to verify the details and seek legal advice if necessary.

Q: How long to keep medical bills after death?

It's recommended to keep medical bills for at least three years after death, especially if they are related to the deceased's estate. This timeframe allows for any potential disputes or claims against the estate. After that, you may discard them unless there are ongoing legal matters.

Full question:

I have been paying on my deceased husband's medical bills for 3 years now. Am I responsible for his bills? I have heard that there is an OLD law on the books that says a wife is NOT responsible for her deceased husbands bills.

Category: Debts and Credit
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Missouri

Answer:

Your responsibility for your deceased husband's medical bills depends on whether you agreed to be a responsible party, such as by signing any documents. Generally, debts of the deceased should be settled using their estate's assets. Spouses typically do not inherit their partner's debts unless they co-signed or were joint account holders. In community property states, spouses may be liable for certain debts incurred during the marriage. However, state laws vary regarding debt responsibility based on when the debt was incurred and the identity of the debtor. After settling debts, any remaining assets are distributed to the beneficiaries of the will. If the deceased had little or no assets, unsecured debts like credit card bills may not be paid.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

How far back can insurance cover medical bills?

Insurance coverage for medical bills typically depends on the policy terms and the date of service. Most health insurance plans cover bills incurred while the policy is active. However, if you submit a claim after a certain period, usually within one year, it may be denied. Always check your specific policy for details on coverage timelines.

Do unpaid medical bills go away?

Do I have to pay a medical bill from 3 years ago?

You may still be responsible for a medical bill from three years ago, depending on state laws regarding the statute of limitations for debt collection. In many states, creditors can pursue collection for a certain period, often between three to six years. It's best to consult a legal professional for specific guidance based on your situation.

Can a doctor bill you 3 years later?

How long to keep medical bills after death?

Am I responsible for deceased spouse medical bills?

You may not be responsible for your deceased spouse's medical bills unless you co-signed or were a joint account holder. Generally, debts are settled using the deceased's estate. However, in community property states, you might be liable for certain debts incurred during the marriage. Consult a legal professional for specific advice.