DEAR JEFF: What happens to debt when someone dies? I have some credit card debt. Will my husband and children be responsible for that debt after I am gone? Will it have to be paid out of life insurance? Thanks, “Deep in Debt”

Dear “Deep in Debt”: Since Texas is a community property state, your husband will probably be responsible for the credit card debt, unless he can show that the debt was purchased using only your separate property, and benefited only your separate property. This is highly unlikely.


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Jeffrey Bates is licensed to practice law in the State of Texas, but is not board certified in any area of specialty by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

This column is meant for general information and educational purposes only, and neither this column nor the transmittal of a legal question via email constitutes the creation of an attorney/client relationship between the reader and Jeffrey Bates and/or Southern Newspapers Inc. For specific advice regarding legal matters affecting you, consult an attorney.

To submit a question, send it via email to [email protected], or via regular mail to Ask the Lawyer, 101 S. First St., Lufkin 75901, or call 639-2900.

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