Legal and Financial Protection
What if I find out the deceased had a hidden debt or financial problem?
Short answer
Do not pay it immediately. Assess whether the estate is solvent (assets exceed debts) or insolvent (debts exceed assets). If the estate is insolvent, an attorney can help prioritize which debts get paid in what order. You are not personally responsible for…
What this usually means
Do not pay it immediately. Assess whether the estate is solvent (assets exceed debts) or insolvent (debts exceed assets). If the estate is insolvent, an attorney can help prioritize which debts get paid in what order. You are not personally responsible for the estate's debts simply because you are a family member.
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.