Can the hospital bill me for my decreased husband’s medical bills?
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Can the hospital bill me for my decreased husband’s medical bills?
There is no estate, no 401K or saving or checking account in his name. The bills
where going to him and now they have put the bills in my name but I never
signed anything. They told me that it is a state law that the bills will be sent to
me as the guarantor of the estate. Am I responsible for this bill?
Asked on August 28, 2018 under Estate Planning, North Carolina
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
NC follows something called the "Doctrine of Necessaries" which means spouses are responsible for each other's debts if they were incurred for the benefit of the household. And medical bills are such a debt. Accordingly, the hospital can make a claim for the money against you and/or your husband's estate. At this point, I would recommend that you consult directly with a local attorney who can best advise you further. They may be able to help you negotiate with the hospital and possibly reduce the bill.
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
NC follows something called the "Doctrine of Necessaries" which means spouses are responsible for each other's debts if they were incurred for the benefit of the household. And medical bills are such a debt. Accordingly, the hospital can make a claim for the money against you and/or your husband's estate. At this point, I would recommend that you consult directly with a local attorney who can best advise you further. They may be able to help you negotiate with the hospital and possibly reduce the bill.
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