Bills and Other Payments
Handling bills after someone dies can be very confusing and emotionally stressful. Most providers will require a proof of death (ie a death certificate) to stop charging and arrange any relevant refunds (back dated to the date of death), however some will require receipt of a Grant of Probate to facilitate a cancellation.
As the executor you are not personally liable for the deceased's bills, however there are some bills that are useful to continue paying before money comes into the estate (at which time you will be reimbursed).
Triaging Bills
Not every bill needs to be paid immediately, and it's common to delay some payments until estate funds are available.
Ask these two questions for each bill:
- Is this service still useful or needed?
- Does paying it help preserve or administer the estate?
Disclaimer: All estate management information provided in this document is general in nature and may not apply to your specific circumstances. Please seek independent, specific legal advice from Your Estate Lawyer for your unique situation.