Frequently Asked Questions On Who Is Responsible For A Decedent’s Debt - Part 4

 

When a relative dies, the last thing grieving family members need are calls from lenders and debt collectors. There are many federal and state laws prohibiting abusive, unfair, or deceptive debt collection practices. These laws protect borrowers while alive and relatives after a loved one dies. This article provides answers to some frequently asked questions regarding handling a deceased person's debts.

 

This 4 part series of articles will provides answers to some frequently asked questions regarding handling a deceased person's debts including:

 

• Who Is Responsible for Paying a Decedent's Debt?
• Exceptions
• Student Loan Debt
• Speaking With Debt Collectors
• What to do if a Debt Collector Calls
• How to stop Debt Collectors from calling
• Can Debt Collectors share information about a Decedent’s Debt to Others?
• Filing a Complaint

 

Part 1 addressed Who Is Responsible for Paying a Decedent's Debt and Exceptions. Part 2 addressed Student Loan Debt and Speaking With Debt Collectors. Part 3 addressed What to do if a Debt Collector Calls and How to stop Debt Collectors from calling. Part 4 addresses Can Debt Collectors share information about a Decedent’s Debt to Others and Filing a Complaint.

 

Can Debt Collectors share information about a Decedent’s Debt to Others?

 

In general, it is illegal for debt collectors to publicize an individual's debt. They may only contact uninvolved third parties to find out how to contact the person responsible for the unpaid debt. However, they may not disclose or discuss the debt with anyone other than you, your spouse, your guardian (if you are a minor), or the personal representative of your estate. If you retain an attorney to handle a deceased person's estate, debt collectors must work through the attorney.

 

Filing a Complaint

 

There are two primary ways to report misbehavior by debt collectors. First, you may file a report with the Federal Trade Commission, the agency responsible for enforcing federal consumer protection laws. Additionally, many states have their own consumer protection laws. You can report violations of these laws to your state Attorney General's office.

 

Call your Amarillo Estate Planning Attorney Today and Get Help Handling a Deceased Relative’s Debt

 

Losing a loved one and handling their estate is already a difficult life experience. Handling a deceased relative's debt only adds to this burden. Fortunately, chances are you are not responsible for your deceased relative's debts. The best way to find out what your obligations really are is to simply contact a local Amarillo Texas probate attorney. If you are planning your estate or updating your will, the best thing to do is consult with a local Amarillo Texas estate planning attorney to make sure you are following the laws and regulations of your respective state. Many people have similar questions and go through the same line of questioning when deciding how to make or update their estate plan. It can be and often is critical that you get legal help understanding the basics of this process. The best way to get this understanding is to contact an experienced Amarillo Estate Planning attorney near you. Stop and take a breath and call an Amarillo Estate Planning Attorney who has had decades of experience.  Pick up the phone and call Amarillo Estate Planning Attorney Bill Cornett.  Bill is your choice as an experienced estate attorney in Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle.  Don’t waste another minute.  Call him today.

 

Your most important action may end up being the phone call that you make to your Amarillo estate planning attorney lawyer.  In the Texas Panhandle that call should be to Amarillo attorney Bill Cornett.  Whether you need assistance with a will, administration of an estate or a contested probate, contact the Law Office of Bill Cornett. Be smart…remember these phone numbers (806) 374-9498 or (800) 658-6618.

 

Put Cornett Law Firm’s 50+ years of experience to work for you

 

Bill Cornett, Amarillo Attorney, with Cornett Law Firm, offers affordable, qualified services as an experienced personal injury lawyer and probate attorney. Bill also has experience in estate planning and agriculture law. Sit down with Bill at his office located at 612 S. Van Buren St. in Amarillo TX by calling (806) 374-9498 or (800) 658-6618 TODAY to schedule a free consultation.