Bereavement
When someone dies, money worries can add to grief. You are usually not responsible for their debts unless they were joint or you were a guarantor.
First steps
- 1Use the Tell Us Once service to inform government departments.
- 2Debts are usually paid from the person's estate — not by family members.
- 3Check if you can get a Funeral Expenses Payment or Bereavement Support Payment.
- 4Ask lenders to pause contact while things are sorted out.
Their debts
- Sole debts are paid from what the person left. If there is not enough, the debt is usually written off.
- Joint debts and debts you guaranteed may become your responsibility.
Support for you
- Bereavement Support Payment if your husband, wife or civil partner died.
- Cruse Bereavement Support offers free emotional support: 0808 808 1677.
Useful links
Want to talk it through? It's free and confidential.