How can I become beneficiary after my husband's death?

Sorry but I think it is unlikely that you can do anything. Life insurance proceeds by statute are not subject to the claims of creditors unless no beneficiary is specified and the money goes into the probate estate. Unfortunately, you signed the contract with the funeral director on the assumption that you were the beneficiary, unless you can show that it was a mutual mistake, you may not have a defense. Did this information help answer your question(s)? Details and context often affect the validity and usefulness of an answer that is based on a general statement of the law. You may need to consult directly with an attorney and provide additional information in order to get the best answer.

Sorry there is nothing that you can do legally to compel your mother-in-law to contribute or pay the funeral bill.

As surviving spouse, you have a right to certain assets even though a beneficiary had been designated. Since you will need to bring a proceeding in court to have the beneficiary turn over the funds to the estate, I suggest that you retain the services of an estate attorney to assist you.

Where there is no will in California, the surviving spouse has rights to inherit, the amount depending on whether or not there are children. Beneficiary usually means someone who takes under an insurance policy. You should consult a local attorney, being clear about your financial condition, until you find someone who will intervene on financial terms you can afford or on a deferred basis.

Insurance beneficiaries cannot be changed after death.