Dear Liz: I have read that only the primary cardholder is responsible for the balance on a credit card, not the authorized user (such as a spouse). When that primary cardholder dies, there is no obligation for an authorized user to pay off the balance. Is this accurate? What would prevent someone whose primary cardholder is near death from racking up purchases and then, after the primary cardholder dies, refusing to pay it?
Answer: In a community property state such as California, spouses typically are both responsible for debts incurred during the marriage. In all states, the deceased spouse’s estate would have to pay all creditors before any leftover money was doled out to survivors. So a spouse who went on such a spending binge wouldn’t come out ahead, unless the primary cardholder was broke and left no estate.
Other authorized users might have no such restraints, however. Anyone who thinks an authorized user might pull such a stunt would be smart to take that person off the card before it becomes an issue.
Holiday overindulgence can lead to throbbing heads, expanded waistlines — and piles of credit card bills. In my 
Today’s top story: Last-minute tax moves to make on December 31st. Also in the news: How to tell if your financial advisor is giving you good advice, why you should consider freezing your credit reports, and the top 6 financial resolutions for the new year. 
Today’s top story: Money tasks to tackle during your winter break. Also in the news: How to save thousands on a divorce, getting in the savings habit, and why your new tech toy could be a security threat. 
Today’s top story: How to jump-start your 2016 debt repayment plan. Also in the news: Money resolutions for 2016, how banks fail to stop elder abuse, and how three folders can make your tax preparation easier.