What is an estate????

What is the name of your state? Illinois
My father recently passed away. He has/had nothing in his name only! His wife has been getting harrased by one creditor on a Menards credit card that was only in his name! Is she responsible for this? They are telling her that they could take her house and will get the balance paid of 1400 dollars. Can they do this? as far as we are concercned he doesn't have an estate and never had a separate bank account or anything! Everything was in his wifes name or both! Please help. as we are financially strapped and can't afford any mishaps! THANKS!!!!

[Ladynred]

Well, the catch is that his name WAS on some joint assets, so he did have an estate. I seriously doubt they can take anything from her. Its unlikely they'll go so far as to force probate for a measly $1400. It would be wise to consult with a lawyer or legal aid if she can't afford a lawyer. I'd be willing to bet they're just turning screws on a greiving widow and won't do squat.

By the way, if this is a 3rd party debt collector, their threats and harrassment are a violation of the law !

Thanks for the advice!! It is mind easing to know that they hopefuly are idle threats. If you could give me anymore suggestions or let me know where I could research this at it would be very helpful. I have looked and searched everywhere but everything is so vague! Thanks for the help!!!