What responsibilities do the next of kin have concerning bills?

The next of kin may be responsible for settling the deceased's unpaid bills and debts, depending on the laws of the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances. Typically, they must ensure that the deceased's estate is properly managed, which includes paying off debts from the estate's assets before distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries. However, next of kin are not personally liable for the deceased's debts unless they were co-signers or joint account holders. It's advisable for them to consult with an estate attorney to understand their obligations and rights.