Bankruptcy and my wife

AlanR9

Hi,
Sorry if this is a repeat post.
I was made bankrupt by HMRC in 2014, all debts taken into consideration.
My wife has not been employed for the last 30+ years and as such has no independent income.
I being the only wage earner, I am now concerned that a debt collection agency is now going to go after my wife for a small debt on one of our joint accounts which was part of my bankruptcy.
Where does she stand on this, as technically I would be paying the debt?
The debt in question is for Santander, but the debt is now owned by Robinson Way, they originally chased me for the debt but closed it when I told them I was bankrupt, the letter received recently was addressed to me and when I contacted them they mentioned it was a joint debt with my wife.
Any guidance would be appreciated
.
Thanks.

Minkym00

If it's a joint debt then she will now be solely liable. It doesn't matter that you will technically be paying it.

TheGardener

Yes - your wife will be liable for the debt. You will be able to make economies in your budget to pay this but the OR may not allow it as a formal part of your budget. It is somewhat unusual nowadays for a life partner not to contribute financially to a household income but it's not compulsory I guess - the OR will not be able to insist she goes out to work.
Alternatively she could set up a nominal payment of £1 a month or something if the creditor will accept it and you will have to sort it out between you when your BR (and IPA if you have one) is over.