What about their credit card debt?

What this usually means

If the card was solely in their name and you were not a joint account holder (authorized users are not joint holders), the debt is a claim against the estate — not your personal responsibility. If you were a joint account holder, you are responsible for the full balance. Notify the credit card company of the death and stop using the card.

What to do next

• Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
• Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
• Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
• Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.

Related questions

• Am I responsible for my spouse's debts?
• What about joint credit card debt?
• What happens to my credit score after my spouse dies?
• How do I build credit in my own name if everything was in their name?
• What about their student loans — am I responsible?