Credit cards & deceased's estate

yorkshirelass3

My Father died recently. I’m his executor and sole beneficiary. He died leaving a house, a small sum in bank accounts, along with debts of a loan and credit cards. My Mum lives in the house, however the house is not in her name (they had lived apart for a number of years, and only just lived together again shortly before his death).
Am I obliged to sell the house to pay for his loan and credit cards (none were secured on the house when he was alive) when his surviving spouse still needs a place to live?

Thanks

Pollycat

yorkshirelass3 wrote: »

My Father died recently. I’m his executor and sole beneficiary. He died leaving a house, a small sum in bank accounts, along with debts of a loan and credit cards. My Mum lives in the house, however the house is not in her name (they had lived apart for a number of years, and only just lived together again shortly before his death).
Am I obliged to sell the house to pay for his loan and credit cards (none were secured on the house when he was alive) when his surviving spouse still needs a place to live?

Thanks

I'm a bit confused as in this thread last week you mention your Dad took equity release on the house in 2007.
https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/47289557#Comment_47289557

yorkshirelass3

Hi - yes, he did. I'm contemplaing finding the Equity Release money myself to pay them as I know this is clearly secured on the house. But, if I'm obliged to sell the house to pay the credit cards / personal loan, then I may as well sell the house to cover it all.

If I need to seek legal advise, then I will, but wanted to know if anyone had any help so I can try and make headway.

Thanks

Pollycat

I see.

This might be useful to you:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/ManagingDebt/DebtsAndArrears/DG_10013093