Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in New York
spouse dies and credit cards
Hi, wife has about 6 cards under her name only. She died from cancer this year 2007. We own a house together under both our names.
Since my name is not on her cards do I have to pay? And if I do can the goverment help on this I am 36 so was my wife own a house in Suffolk NY.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: spouse dies and credit cards
Q. Since my name is not on her cards do I have to pay?
A. No. However, your wife's estate is responsible for the debt.
Q. And if I do can the goverment help on this I am 36 so was my wife own a house in Suffolk NY.
A. No. The government will not help. However, I have found that many card companies will forgive a debt based on a tragic event like cancer. Concerning the house, if it was owned as "husband and wife," it may be deeded solely into your name upon production of a death certificate.
Mike.