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  Otherwise, the claim is forever barred and is no longer valid.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.