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Mother was old and consistently paid the gas bill late. Consequently, the gas company charged a monthly late charge, a percentage of the total monthly bill. Over years the bill started to roll over in late fees. Mother died recently at age 94 and left a $21,000 gas bill. The gas company, Nat Grid, about to shut off gas to her home very soon to which I occupy. I am disabled and can not pay the $21,000.my mother owes. I do not own her home yet by way of inheritance. I believe this gas bill should be expunged since mother died. The gas company refuses. As a son and an occupant of her home how can I keep the gas on? Could I declare mother bankrupt posthumously?
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The gas bill is a claim against the estate, but the house is an asset. If there is no mortgage, then you need to get the house in your name so you can pay the bill. The claim is not expunged. Offer to pay the bill since your mother died as a compromise. You cannot get free gas since then. Usually the gas company will work with you if you pay the current bill.
Answered on Sep 22nd, 2016 at 3:14 PM