1. Life
2. End of Life

Help me deal with practical matters after a parent's death

Questions & Answers

• Question - Am I responsible for my mother's medical bills after her death?

  There are limited situations in which a child will be help responsible for a parent’s medical bills. But it may be worthwhile to call in an expert for help.

• Question - Can I transfer my mother's vehicle after her death?

  Being named an agent in a power of attorney will not entitle you to transfer property title after death.

• Question - Does my mother have rights to her husband's Social Security?

  When one spouse is on Medicaid in a nursing home, does the other get Social Security benefits? The other spouse gets some Social Security benefits.

• Question - Can you provide me with a list of "end of life" questions to address with my family?

  A comprehensive list for end of life questions will be appearing soon; in the meantime, this site can help provide some structure for your discussions.

• Question - Is there a statute of limitations on when creditors can ask for money after a parent's death?

  Unanswered. Can you help?

• Question - How can I get a check cashed that was written to my deceased mother's estate?

  It will take some fancy footwork -- and possibly a court proceeding -- to cash a check made out to your mother after her death.

• Question - Will I be held responsible for my mom's credit card debt after she dies?

  A few words to relieve the children of spendthrifts: They will probably not be responsible for their parents' debts.

• Question - How soon after my parent's death do I need to begin administering her will, and what's involved?

  How soon after my parent's death do I need to administer their estate and other financial affairs? What other legal matters should I be aware of?