Decedent's Debts

Question: If your parent passes away and leaves outstanding credit card debts, who is responsible for payment?

Answer: If anyone else is contractually liable on the account (not a mere authorized user) they remain liable. If there is no one else contractually liable, the estate of the decedent is liable. If there is no one else contractually liable and no estate, no one is liable. Beware of attempts to change names on accounts or collect money from relatives. They are common, and often violate the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Also, no one should use the decedent’s account, as that may result in personal liability.