Q: Unaware of $39k inheritance tax as estate executrix. Next steps?
I was the executrix of my uncle's estate and hired an attorney to assist with the process. However, the attorney never informed me about the inheritance tax amount or deadlines. Now, months later, I've discovered that I owe $39,000. What steps should I take to address this situation with my attorney and resolve the tax liability?
A: Have your accountant go over that inheritance tax. He may be able to reduce or limit your liability.
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
- (916) 704-3009
- View Profile
- Answered
A:
It sounds like you're dealing with a stressful situation, especially since you weren’t informed about the inheritance tax by your attorney. The first step should be to reach out to the attorney who assisted with the estate. Explain that you were unaware of the tax liability and ask for clarification about why it wasn’t addressed earlier, especially given that you were relying on their expertise.
If you believe the attorney’s oversight played a role in the situation, you can ask for assistance in managing the tax payment or request a reduction in their fees. Depending on the circumstances, you may also consider discussing the matter with another attorney to see if there was a breach of duty.
Next, you’ll need to address the $39,000 tax liability. Contact the Kentucky Department of Revenue to inquire about payment options, including installment plans if available. It’s crucial to resolve the tax issue as soon as possible to avoid any penalties or interest from accumulating.
Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
