Claims Against Estate
CLAIMS AGAINST THE ESTATE
A claim against an estate in North Carolina refers to a legal demand for payment or compensation made by a creditor or interested party against the assets of a deceased person’s estate. This claim may arise from various types of debts or obligations, including:
Unpaid Debts: Any outstanding loans, credit card debts, or personal loans owed by the deceased.
Medical Expenses: Bills for medical services rendered to the deceased prior to their death.
Funeral Expenses: Costs associated with the deceased’s burial or cremation.
Rent or Lease Obligations: Any unpaid rent or obligations related to property leases.
In North Carolina, creditors must file their claims with the estate’s representative (executor or administrator) within a specified period, generally within three months from the date the estate was opened. If a claim is approved, the estate will use its assets to pay the claim before any distributions are made to beneficiaries. If a claim is denied, the creditor may seek to pursue legal action to collect the debt from the estate.