Am I responsible for my mothers debts, she was in a rest home for 7 days and they have now sent me the bill?

Answer by  Kurt (4579)

It depends on whether you are the one responsible for your mother's bills because she set you up with a power of attorney to handle her financial matters. If you have the ability to write checks on your mother's checking account and deposit her social security checks, then you may also have the obligation to pay her debts.

Answer by  BoeZoe (136)

Unless you've signed a document agreeing to be responsible for another's debts, then no. However, if you do pay towards debts of another, then you can possibly be construed as responsible for payment. Estate management matters can be tricky so be careful not to assume personal responsibility for others debts.

Answer by  Anonymous

I collect for facility and nursing home bills. You cannot be held responsible for someone eles debts. A court would throw our the fact that you signed papers because they would be considered "signed under deress."

Answer by  Latin4 (11170)

If you sign anything at the nursing home for your mother, some states say you are liable for the bills. I would check with a lawyer that handles senior care. This also goes for hospitals. I signed for my son who was 40, and did not have insurance and they sent me the bills. They said I was liable.

Answer by  Huntress (1935)

Did you sign any papers when she was in the rest home? If you did you might have agreed to take legal responsibility for the bill. Do you have medical power of attorney? Some states will take that as an agreement that you are responsible. As to whether you are morally responsible... only you can answer that question for yourself.