DWP overpayment (long standing) and probate

[Lauralou263]

My dm passed away suddenly a few weeks ago without leaving a will. I am currently filling in probate forms. I am the sole beneficiary...her only asset apart from a few hundred £ is her home. She had a repayment set up with the dwp out of her benefits which had been ongoing for some time and an amount is still outstanding. Can anyone advise me whether I need to declare the exact amount on the probate form (I only have an estimate due to recent paperwork), and also whether the dwp will expect the money in one payment or are likely to allow next to pay in instalments? Will I be expected to sell the house?


Thank you for your time.

[stevemLS]

Re: DWP overpayment (long standing) and probate

As far as I understand it, if the debts of the estate outweigh the available liquid assets, the Administrator would be expected to settle the debt.I don't think DWP would accept instalments, but if it makes the difference between having to sell the house or not, they may be prepared to discuss it. The difficulty is that the debt is now owed by the estate, rather than an individual.