Am I Entitled to a Refund for Payments Made on a Deceased Relative’s Car Loan?

Question from Kay, Am I Entitled to a Refund for Payments Made on a Deceased Relative’s Car Loan?

Answer from AI:

The question of whether you can get your money back after making payments on a deceased relative’s car loan is complex and depends on several factors. It’s important to note that this information is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation. For personalized advice, you should consult with a legal professional.

Understanding Your Legal Position

In general, when a person dies, their debts become the responsibility of their estate. This means that any outstanding debts, including car loans, should be paid out of the deceased person’s assets before any remaining assets are distributed to the heirs. If you’ve been making payments on your grandmother’s car loan, it’s possible that you’ve been paying a debt that should have been handled by the executor of her estate.

However, unless you are a co-signer on the loan or have some other legal obligation to pay it, you generally would not be entitled to a refund of the payments you’ve made. This is because you voluntarily chose to make these payments.

Steps to Take

If you find yourself in this situation, here are some steps you might consider:

1. Contact the lender: Explain the situation and ask for information about the loan. You may need to provide proof of your grandmother’s death and your relationship to her.
2. Consult with a lawyer: A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. They can also help you communicate with the lender and negotiate a resolution if necessary.
3. Reach out to the executor of the estate: If your grandmother’s estate is still being settled, the executor may be able to provide information about the loan and help you resolve the situation.

Legal Resources

For more information about handling a deceased person’s debts, you can refer to the Federal Trade Commission’s guide on Debts and Deceased Relatives.

Remember, this information is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation. For personalized advice, you should consult with a legal professional.