In most cases in California, a spouse is responsible for all the bills, including medical, of their late partner. California is one of the few states that’s a “community property” state and so most debt accumulated by a married person is a “marital obligation” with liability for both people.
Under the “doctrine of necessities, one spouse is liable for the “necessary” expenses incurred by the other spouse during marriage. While the general rule is that one spouse is not liable for the other spouses’ medical bills, there are indeed exceptions that would make the other spouse responsible for payment.
What happens to spouses money after the bills are paid?
When the bills have been covered, each spouse can spend what they have left as they see fit. It sounds like a reasonable plan, but the process often builds resentment over the individual purchases made.
What happens if your spouse cleans out your joint account?
If the funds were used to pay joint debts, marital bills, or for your children’s needs, the court probably won’t reimburse you even though you did not consent to your spouse’s use of the money. If instead, your spouse used the money on an over the top trip around the world, they will likely find a way to ensure you are compensated for the loss.
Is it normal for one spouse to take over the finances?
Sometimes one spouse manages the finances, and that can be perfectly healthy, Moore says. However, in other cases, it can be “kind of a negative thing that’s going on.” In some cases, a spouse will blame the other for debts and just take over the finances, she says.
Can a spouse be liable for debt incurred before marriage?
In these community-property states, you are not liable for most of your spouse’s debt that was incurred before marriage, but any debt incurred after the wedding is automatically shared—even when applied for individually. 3 3. Personality Personality can play a big role in discussions and habits about money.
