Brother-In-Law Died Without A Will. I Paid For The Funeral. Can I Be Reimbursed For This Expense?

When your brother-in-law passed away without a will, this is known as dying “intestate” (without a valid will).  It depends on the laws of your specific state, but usually what happens when a person dies intestate, is that the court appoints an executor who is responsible for liquidating all of the assets of the decedent’s estate.  The executor is liable for paying any claims made against the estate.  Whoever pays for the funeral and burial expenses can make a claim against the estate for reimbursement. There is no need to file a property lien.  Filing a claim against the estate means that your reimbursement claim will go against any assets within the estate, such as cash, stocks, bonds, or real property.  It is advised that you keep a record of all expenses associated with the funeral and burial costs that you incurred.