Settling debts?

BobQ

Daffs, the Death in Service is likely to be multiple of annual salary. If its public sector its likely to be at least twice annual salary, you can check that on pension's providers website.

I agree with RAS, but would add that if Mum's partner is receiving a means tested benefit giving him money might mean he loses the benefit if money is paid into his bank account. Also you said above that you are the nominee. If your brother is not named on the nomination form then it would affect you in the first instance and the others after that.

Daffs_2

Thanks everybody for the advice. We all work full time and none of us are in receipt of any benefits so nothing to worry about there.

BobQ - The Death in Service award would ordinarily be 2 years salary as you say (both mum and I work/worked for the Civil Service) but my mum took partial retirement several years ago along with some of the lump sum that ordinarily have been due when she retired. I can't quite work out from her pension paperwork whether anything at all will be due, will just have to wait for the paperwork to come through.

getmore4less

Can't believe no one mentioned the most important thing with a potentially insolvent estate.


Which is to consider not doing the administration.


If there are insufficient assets to pay all the debts then let the creditors do the job.

TomEdpost

Sorry for your loss. There are others on this thread better able to give you advice about the legalities but as I am dealing with probate and an estate for the third time I would strongly advise you play this "absolutely straight" as far as the finances are concerned. Things you think are hidden have a habit of springing up later and causing even more family problems. Be straightforward about the money and any 'secrets' (which you often find out are not secrets at all) and I suspect you will all feel relieved and calmer in 12 months' time. Hope it goes well for you.