One Bill that doesn’t have to be Paid following Death

Dying certainly costs a lot of money but there is a glimmer of good news. Council tax ceases to be due from the date of death.

It’s also not charged on empty homes until six months after probate is granted. So it’s important to notify the local authority as soon as possible, especially if there is a surviving occupant who may be entitled to a 25% reduction. Any refunds of council tax should be added as an asset on the probate forms.

Sadly, though, household bills such as water, gas, electricity and telephone do still have to be paid – albeit by the estate. First, request final accounts from the service providers. Then cancel any direct debits or transfer them to a spouse or civil partner’s sole account.

Remember that outstanding bills should be added to the probate forms as liabilities and accounts in credit should be added as assets.

If the property is to be sold, the account should be transferred to the executor’s name and settled by the estate when the sale is complete.

For professional help with the probate process, contact Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243.