Dad died. Money was stolen.

[Lostmyheart101]

Hi,

I have another post running, it’s all very dramatic but just need help with a few things.

My dad died a few days ago, not married, I’m his only child.

He was disabled so I assume got some form of disability, he also lived in a council property. He has nothing of value, nor a car.

He was in his 60’s so instead of keeping money in the bank, got a friend to withdraw it and he stashed it in the house.
He became unwell last year and went into hospital, his brother went into his house and took all the money ,10k and some of my dads watches. When my dad came out of hospital and asked for it back he told my dad he spent it on bills. I can’t prove he stole the money.

Now there is nothing. My uncle won’t give me the money as it’s gone. My dad has no assets and doesn’t own his property. I’ve been told the property is in a bit of a mess and once the council come in to clear it they will bill the next of kin, the next of kin will also be billed for funeral costs. That’s me.

I’m rejecting being next of kin as I don’t want to be landed with a bill or all the admin that comes along with it. If I do this will my uncle be next of kin? I’m hoping he does so he can pay it being as he had all the money.

If he decides he don’t want to be it either, does it just keep going down the line?

There isn’t enough money that my dad has (£1500 in the bank) to pay for the funeral, any outstanding bills he has and to clean the council house up…Tyres in the garden ect.

Any advice on what to do please?

I'm sorry for your loss (and I'm sorry your uncle is a thief).

I don't think debts are inherited like that in the UK - you're not liable for any of your father's debts. The funeral might be a bit different, if you'd like a particular kind of funeral.

I think if you say that you can't or won't pay for a funeral, the council / government has to cover it. However, this does mean that it will be very minimal and you won't have any input etc. Alternatively, you could look into a direct cremation, which reduces funeral costs significantly.

They can't force you to pay his debts, and they can't leave him unburied or cremated (although as pp said, you will have no say at all in the date/time/location, you may also not be permitted to attend). If you want anything even vaguely ceremonial it will have to be paid by someone.

As for your uncle... I have no words. Do you have any proof at all that he's taken the cash? I suspect you won't see a penny unfortunately.