Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Illinois
responsibility of medical bills after death
Is the wife responsible for medical bills after the death of her husband? The deceased had no assets other than joint custody of the house. Medical bills were first paid by Medicare and secondary insurance in the husband's name only. Can a death certificate be sent with a letter? And would this apply to all bills in the husband's name only?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: responsibility of medical bills after death
Hello. This situation could pose a problem for
the wife of a deceased husband. The best thing
to do is to open an estate. This is very important and an attorney should be hired. There
is the risk that a medical provider might attempt
to place a lien against any property of the husband; the house for instance. I will be happy
to answer any additional questions that you may
have. There are additional important steps that
need to be followed to assist the wife in this
regard.