Am I liable for ex-husband's tax debts?

BrummieL

My ex-husband (we've been separated for over 10 years but not divorced) has disclosed he has undeclared tax because he never registered as self employed and has been doing odd-jobs for people over past couple of years.   He pays tax on his work pension so suspect he would be liable for tax on any income from any work (once he's deducted allowable expenses).  He has no assets with which to pay the possible tax bill so although I'm advising him to come clean and talk to HMRC I'm concerned that I may be considered liable for the debt and possible fine? Is that the case or because all of our finances were separated some years ago am I in the clear?

eskbanker

BrummieL said:

My ex-husband (we've been separated for over 10 years but not divorced)

So 'your husband' then, in the eyes of the law?

However, HMRC can't come after you for his debts....

fatbelly

I can't see why you would be liable for his debts.

However, if he is declared bankrupt, or similar, and your credit files are linked, then it would have an impact.

Did you/ have you any joint financial product with him? Have you checked recently that he is not 'associated' to you?

Bookworm105

since 1990 men and women have been taxed as individuals.
Whether married or not, a tax liability in his name only is just that, his, not yours 

DullGreyGuy

BrummieL said:

My ex-husband (we've been separated for over 10 years but not divorced) has disclosed he has undeclared tax because he never registered as self employed and has been doing odd-jobs for people over past couple of years.   He pays tax on his work pension so suspect he would be liable for tax on any income from any work (once he's deducted allowable expenses).  He has no assets with which to pay the possible tax bill so although I'm advising him to come clean and talk to HMRC I'm concerned that I may be considered liable for the debt and possible fine? Is that the case or because all of our finances were separated some years ago am I in the clear?

Presumably you dont have a separation agreement? 

In that case it's your estranged husband, not ex-husband. 

He will be personally liable for the debt but were you to divorce now it would be considered in the division of assets. Similarly if they attempt to make a recovery through the courts they will consider marital assets. 

BrummieL

Thanks for the comments - all helpful in clarifying my situation

GDB2222

Do you own any assets together, eg a house?