Recently discovered debt of terminally ill parent

Miss_Poohs

Here's a wee link, worth a read through.

https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/dealing-with-the-debts-of-someone-who-has-died

Sazzie23

Hi, I'm so sorry to hear of your terrible news, I hope my story might help you a bit.

My partner passed away recently, he was never on our on house deeds and has no insurance. When he died he left debts of around £10k. He had no property to sell, had sold his car prior to death to fund his funeral.

The bank wrote off the debt without any trouble, the estate was simple to administer.

Obviously this doesn't help you with the present situation, but I think a DMP - it's called something different in Scotland - would be the way to go. Make sure you include medical costs on the budget, such as parking costs etc, having to buy PJ's or whatever. Mum doesn't need to be included in the DMP but they must not continue to use the cards.

I know you say Dad was capable etc before this, but I'd strongly suspect he knew there was something wrong and that's why the debt got to such a state. It's an unpleasant thing to find, but probably better to know now rather than in the later stages.

Best wishes to you and your family, I hope the debt doesn't spoil the time you have left together, it's only money and family is more important. Xx

f0nz

Thank you everyone for your advice. My mother can't go for power of attorney due to the nature of the tumor. I had a quick look at guardianship last night so thank you to whomever suggested it. I didn't really take any info in to be honest but I'll go over it again today now that I've had a little sleep and hope it sinks in

We're seeing the consultant today so I'll ask for the form so that we can put in a claim for attendance allowance.

Another things just thought of, one of the credit cards he has is with the same provider as their joint account. This is the only account my mother has. Will making a payment plan on the credit card affect their joint account? Will they then recall the overdraft immediately? If needs be I'm sure I can squeeze my families budget to pay the overdraft off so that access to that account isn't hindered.

fermi

I would make sure she opens an unconnected account ASAP.

They should not set off against a joint account, but suppose could close or withdraw facilities etc.

Main thing is if they act against it then it would be a hassle to complain about and sort, taking time and upset.

Get an unconnected account in place for everything essential and that will negate most of that possibility.