My mom died 3 weeks ago. She has maybe 14000 in debt and no property, clunker car and we rent an apt. She received a pto and final paycheck made out to her estate. I have a handwritten “will” that says she leaves everything to me. I have her death certificate. I have read everything online I can find but I just don’t know next step. Someone said file for taxes number with IRS then go to my bank with will and certificate and open acct. Okay, but then what? Someone else said if I post obituary that’s enough to notify creditors and they have 40 days, in CA to try and take part of the money to her estate? How do they know to contact me. I’m just so confused and I know things need to be handled in timely fashion. I’m trying to pay her bills and mine, and I’m a single mom of a 17 yr. old who is doing virtual learning while I bust my behind at work all day. I feel like I’m drowning.
Her debts you are not responsible for. I suggest any mail you get, you "return to sender" unopened with "deceased"on it too. I would not call the debtors. Then they get your info and then you get them calling you and harassing you for payment. I may consult with a lawyer and ask how you should handle telling the debtors that payment can't be made because she left no estate. If money is a problem, there's legal aid.