Protecting the Rights of Consumers For Over 25 Years

Question: My husband passed away in 2008 leaving a large medical bill (no insurance). Am I responsible for paying this?

Answer: Illinois has a Family Expense Act, under which one spouse is liable for “necessaries” (generally including medical expenses) of the other. However, if one spouse contracts for the extension of credit in their own name (for example, to pay for elective procedures), federal law prevents the imposition of liability on the other.