Beneficiary Responsibility Question

[georgiagirl007]

What is the name of your state? Georgia

I have been estranged from my mother and brother for 8 years now. When my mother passed away in January, I was contacted by a life insurance company. On one of her policies, the money was split between me and my brother. I have had no part in the funeral arrangements, and I have not in any way tried to pursue claiming any part of her estate. I did make the claim on the life insurance policy. I have now received an email from my estranged brother stating that I am obligated to foot half of the funeral expense bill. Like I said, I did not have any part of the funeral arrangements, and I signed no documents with the funeral home. Am I legally obligated to pay half of the bill?

 

[Zigner]

Tell your bro to pound sand.

 

[tranquility]

You are not *legally* obligated for burying your mother.

 

[Betty]

Nope, you're sure not. Your share of the life ins. money is to do with as you wish.

 

[Dandy Don]

If she left a last will and testament that is being probated, the executor is responsible for paying the funeral bill from the assets in the estate. You are not REQUIRED to pay the funeral expenses, but if there is no estate it would be a nice gesture for you to offer to pay half the bill as a responsible family member--why should he carry the entire burden when this is a family responsibility?