“My husband died recently and I discovered he had credit cards, with debt, in his name only. Am I, as his widow, obligated to pay his credit card debt? Thank you.”

In most states, probably yes. The debts incurred by either spouse during marriage are generally adjudged to be marital debts. The creditors can pursue either of you jointly or severally, and also make a claim against his estate.


Michael Durgavich is an accomplished attorney and mediator. Maintaining a general practice in the San Jose, California area, Mr. Durgavich specializes in family law, bankruptcy, and alternative dispute resolution. Mr. Durgavich can be reached through his website at http://www.MichaelDurgavich.com. Contact This Author

State laws vary, and the above is intended as general advice, and not direct legal advice regarding any one particular situation in any one state. For direct personal legal advice related to your own situation you should consult an attorney familiar with the laws of your state and with your situation.