Will I be responsible for my husband's medical bills when he passes?
I am his sole care giver, and only get a very small SS income on my own. And will I be able to draw on his SS with his passing? I do have power of attorney and I'm his sole beneficiary in our will.
You most likely will be responsible for the medical bills. I agree, check with the hospital social worker to see what aid is available. Check with any Dr offices for any help they can offer and set up payment plans, don't be afraid to ask if they can do anything to reduce the amount owed.. You might also check with local social services to see what resources are available to you.
When my father died, mom's Social Security increased - because of the spousal benefit. The funeral home actually contacted Social Security about Dad's death. The recalculation of mom's benefits happened within a month or two after dad's death.
I think Medical Bills are a marital debt. If these are hospital bills, check with the Social Worker at the hospital to see if they have a charity fun. My GS had a 6k deductable and the Charity fund paid all but about $300. If its Drs., maybe you can make a payment plan with them or they bill u a lesser amount.
I'm not sure about his bills, I can only guess that yes, you would be responsible, since you're his wife. You can pay them with any monies from his will if need be. And as far as his SS, you will be able draw what is called widow benefits from him, and you will receive which ever amount is larger, his widow benefits or your SS income. You won't receive both, but whichever is the larger amount. Make sure that you call the Social Security office shortly after he dies, so they can get the process going on your widow benefits.
And if your husband is near death, I sure hope that you have hospice involved at this point, as all of their care will be covered 100% under your husbands Medicare. They will have aides come several days a week to bathe him, a nurse to come check on him weekly, and will supply any and all equipment, and supplies needed for his care. If you don't have them yet, please call them today. God bless you.
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When my father died, mom's Social Security increased - because of the spousal benefit. The funeral home actually contacted Social Security about Dad's death. The recalculation of mom's benefits happened within a month or two after dad's death.
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And if your husband is near death, I sure hope that you have hospice involved at this point, as all of their care will be covered 100% under your husbands Medicare. They will have aides come several days a week to bathe him, a nurse to come check on him weekly, and will supply any and all equipment, and supplies needed for his care. If you don't have them yet, please call them today. God bless you.