The executor or administrator must pay the debts of the decedent. However, the debts may not be known. Thus, creditors must send written notice to the executor/administrator of the claim. The executor can then determine the validity of the claim and pay it or deny it. A claim must be presented to the executor or administrator in writing within six months of the date of death. Otherwise, the claim is forever barred and is no longer valid. A claim against the estate does not become the obligation of the executor/administrator or the beneficiary. The creditor simply does not get paid.