Is a wife responsible for her husbands medical bills after he passes in New York?

Generally, a surviving spouse is not responsible for the deceased spouse's medical bills in New York.

However, there may be some exceptions or specific circumstances in which the surviving spouse may be held liable. For example:

1. Community Property States: If the couple lived in a community property state (not New York) at the time of the spouse's death, the surviving spouse may be held responsible for the medical debts incurred during the marriage. In a community property state, assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered jointly owned by both spouses.

2. Express or Implied Agreements: If there was an explicit agreement or contract between the spouses stating that the surviving spouse would be responsible for the medical bills, the surviving spouse may be liable for those debts.

3. Fraudulent Transfer of Assets: If the deceased spouse transferred assets to the surviving spouse with the intention of avoiding creditors (including medical creditors), the surviving spouse may be held liable for the unpaid medical bills if the transfer is deemed fraudulent.

4. Spousal Liability for Funeral Expenses: In New York, the surviving spouse is generally responsible for the deceased spouse's funeral expenses. If the surviving spouse uses marital assets or takes on debt to pay for the funeral, they may be responsible for any outstanding medical bills up to the amount spent on the funeral.

It's essential to consult with an experienced attorney familiar with New York estate and debt laws for specific advice based on your circumstances. They can help you understand your obligations and rights and provide guidance on resolving any outstanding medical bills.