Wife death - Please help with where to begin...

Lostlove041025

sourcrates said:

I`m sorry to hear of your loss, the debts are really by the bye at the moment, nothing happens quickly in the debt collection world, you need time to grieve etc first.

I had to deal with my late Brothers estate 18 months ago, he had around 10k in unsecured debt, I sent one letter to each creditor and they all responded in the same way, by writing off what was owed.

You have had some good advice above, and with unsecured creditors, its best you inform them all in writing about what has happened, if your late wife`s assets do not cover her liabilities, make certain you tell them that, best to be upfront from the start, that there is no money to pay them.

Once you inform them of your wife`s death, and the estate won`t cover what is owed, most will take a commercial view and simply write the debts off.

You will need copies of the death certificate for each lender.

Utility debts etc will sometimes also be written off, or they may ask you as the homeowner to settle them, and a new account will be opened in your name.

Thanks very much for sharing your experience!
I am sorry for your loss 🙏 

powerspowers

I’m sorry for the loss of your wife. 

You have been given good advice about the debt, please don’t let it worry you. 

I’d also advise getting a benefit check in your own right, just to check you’re getting everything you are entitled to. 

RAS

Hi, please slow down.

You may feel the need to address everything but financial services move at snail pace.

Have you got a mate who can come round once a month whilst you open your partner's post? A lot will be offers of credit, or discounts on purchases. Ignore or ask your mate to send a notice regarding her death.

A few will be about debt. Hold fire. Start by sending a copy of her death certificate.   No more.

At some point you'll know more about the finances. I'd suggest that you come back for more advice. 

Given your partner was unwell for 2 years before her death, creditors might agree to agree to cancel the debt. It will take time but you may well find the bulk of the debt written off.