Can I break a lease if my husband died and I can no longer afford the apartment?

These comments are made for educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship exists between us. You need to read your lease for any terms that may allow early termination. Unfortunately, the company may be telling you the truth, but it won't hurt to be sure. Your husband's death probably won't matter to the company unless his name was on the lease. Even though you were separated at the time of his death, you may still be a beneficiary of his estate especially if he left no will. Check with his employer for any life insurance and pension or 401k funds.