Inheritance lump sum

lasw
lasw Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
edited January 2024 in Benefits and income
Hello everyone, this is my first post on here and I’m wondering if anyone has any experience or advice on a financial matter. 
I’m mum to my almost 30 year old son who has severe autism and learning difficulties. He has a comprehensive care package funded by social services and spends a few days a week at his supported living and the rest of the time with me. I am his appointee for his benefits as he lacks mental capacity to deal with his own finances. 
He has been made a beneficiary in his godfather’s will - he died a few months ago and this inheritance was unexpected. 
It will be a lump sum (don’t know how much exactly but perhaps around £25,000). It has not been left in trust. 
I need some advice as I’m so worried that my son will lose all his funding for his services and care and ultimately will have a huge negative impact on his life. 
Has anyone any insight into this situation? 
I’d be so grateful for any help. Thank you

Comments

  • lasw
    lasw Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Thank you. 
    I’ve contacted a solicitor and they’re quoting £150 plus vat per hour for initial meeting and £1500-£2500 costs plus £371 court fee to get made his deputy! 
    I’m so worried and scared by it all 😩
  • lasw
    lasw Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Thank you. 
    How can I check if they have the appropriate expertise?
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,456 Championing
    Does he currently claim any means tested benefits? If so then you will need to report the changes to those once the money goes into his bank and they will stop. Not all solicitors have benefits knowledge so please do be aware of that.
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,456 Championing
    It would help to know if they are claiming any means tested benefits. Putting the inheritance into a trust fund if this wasn't mentioned in the will could be treated as deprivation of capital and he could still be treated as having that money. If this happen this will mean that means tested benefits would still end.

    In my opinion for benefits advice a solicitor isn't needed. You can get that advice from an advice agency and this wouldn't cost you or your son anything. https://advicelocal.uk/welfare-benefits

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