Travel expenses for mourners at a funeral

seashore22

It would never cross my mind that something like this was possible.

We attended a funeral for a family member a week go. Perhaps we should contact the widow of the deceased and say that we would like to claim our travelling expenses and the cost of a night in a Premier Inn.

Apologies for the sarcasm, but I can't imagine how anyone would go about claiming this from an estate and why it would be necessary. Obviously builders story was a bit more understandable.

Savvy_Sue

When one of our parents died we (surviving parent and executors) did ask if anyone needed help with the costs of attending the funeral - we weren't all in a good place financially, and when you've got children to bring too, and need to stay for a couple of nights, it soon adds up.

The offer was declined, but it would have come from the estate but not set against IHT, although as there wasn't any due that's a bit academic.

LobsterMemory

Savvy_Sue wrote: »

The offer was declined, but it would have come from the estate but not set against IHT, although as there wasn't any due that's a bit academic.

Would it not have had to come from the beneficiaries rather than the estate?

Which again may be a bit academic

lisyloo

buildersdaughter wrote: »

However, it does seem to me, that as long as all beneficiaries are in agreement, and there are no other issues, then it can be paid, but not allowed against IHT.

Surely beneficiaries can do whatever they want with their money once IHT has been correctly assessed and they!!!8217;ve inherited.

I am doubtful about whether it could come from the estate itself rather than the benficiaries inheritance as surely the will is legally binding?

Not entirely academic as probate could take many months and liquidation of assets e.g. property could take longer.

I am of the opinion that beneficiaries cannot vary the will/inheritance (before the inheritance event) even if all agree. Can anyone confirm?

Yorkshireman99

lisyloo wrote: »

Surely beneficiaries can do whatever they want with their money once IHT has been correctly assessed and they!!!8217;ve inherited.

I am doubtful about whether it could come from the estate itself rather than the benficiaries inheritance as surely the will is legally binding?

Not entirely academic as probate could take many months and liquidation of assets e.g. property could take longer.

I am of the opinion that beneficiaries cannot vary the will/inheritance (before the inheritance event) even if all agree. Can anyone confirm?

Any variation takes place after probate. The executors have to comply wih the law on distributing the estate. They don't have any discretion nor do they have to consult the beneficiaries.

lisyloo

thanks for the confirmation

Savvy_Sue

LobsterMemory wrote: »

Would it not have had to come from the beneficiaries rather than the estate?

Which again may be a bit academic

Well, the estate was being split equally, so probably had the offer been accepted it should have come off that person's share, but we were not of a mind to quibble over the value of every last jug, vase and teaspoon being distributed to ensure absolute equality and 'fairness'.

I realise not everyone is that fortunate.

Opsimath

This is a bit late for your thread but you can make a Deed of Variation any time after death (not just after Probate) up to two years after the death. All beneficiaries of the will must agree to the new arrangements and the executors must also sign. Useful note from the Government - IOV2 - covers some important requirements.

Mojisola

Opsimath wrote: »

This is a bit late for your thread but you can make a Deed of Variation any time after death (not just after Probate) up to two years after the death. All beneficiaries of the will must agree to the new arrangements and the executors must also sign. Useful note from the Government - IOV2 - covers some important requirements.

Only beneficiaries who are adversely affected by the changes need to agree.