So right at the time when grief almost makes it impossible to live, all the official stuff still needs to be done. My son took his own life, mostly in my opinion, because of multiple debts. So now, while Im trying to deal with everything that entails on an emotional level, I have to deal with debtors. Its been tough and complicated but I thought I had informed everyone, dealt with everyone, settled it all, including the tax man. But on Saturday, on a bank holiday weekend when I couldnt contact them, the tax man informs me that as my sons personal representative I am liable for his tax debts and, as a start, I owe £900 to be paid within 30 days. This is what he owes for not returning his tax returns on time, this is without considering the rest of what he owes.
This flattened me. Ive stayed home drinking all weekend as the thoughts of how much he owes and how much I might have to pay terrifies me. Im a pensioner. I have already paid out over £3000 for funeral expenses, cleaning his house etc. The fact I might have to pay this tax debt is one thing but it also reminds me that he had no money, well £1.46 p, and this breaks my heart that he couldnt tell me. The thought of his last weeks, months, worrying over money is unbearable.
I am wracked with guilt, fear, grief. I have no other family to turn to for help. I dont want to tell friends just how bad his financial situation was. Which means Im dealing with this alone.
I am so sorry @abl for your loss and the situation you now find yourself in. My understanding is that you cannot be liable for someone else’s debt. Normally this would be paid from the deceased’s estate but as your son had nothing this can’t be so. Perhaps you should seek advice from the Citizens Advice Bureau. I wish you well. x
I was going to say the same. You are not liable for his debt and would seek advice from citizens advice.
They could say you are responsible in the hope you pay but if he died with no estate then he’s debt dies with him.
Seek advice before any money is handed over.
@abl I suspect that you are being subjected to a scam here. HMRC would not call in the first place, they do not work at weekends and you can not be made liable for another person’s debts unless they were taken out in joint names.
Happy to talk through this privately. But please ignore that call and seek advice, CAB or Step Change would be a good start.
Pere
Oooh good point @PJ64.
@abl doesn’t say how she was contacted but yes, HMRC definitely wouldn’t phone.
Hi @abl
I’m sorry you are having a difficult time sorting out your son’s affairs. It’s hard enough as it is when you are grieving without the added stress.
I lost my son 8 months ago and I had to sort out his tax because he was self employed.
I informed the tell us once service which includes HMRC and received a letter from them ( HMRC) a few months later. I spoke to a very helpful person on their bereavement line and forms were sent out for me to fill in… earnings etc. My son had been paying tax ( can’t remember proper name) as the company he worked for deducted so much from his wages so he was due a rebate.
HMRC will never phone you or email you. They will communicate by post but I never received calls or email.Please phone their bereavement line and speak to someone who can help with your son’s taxe. They were very helpful and sympathetic. It is worrying but I’m relieved it’s now sorted.
I hope this is helpful xx